Managing Devices Within A Vehicular Communication Network

ABSTRACT

A network node module within a vehicle operates to manage devices coupled to a vehicular communication network of the vehicle based on a use mode defining rights and privileges for operating in the vehicular communication network. Upon being configured in accordance with a particular use mode of a set of use modes, the network node module can identify a device coupled to the vehicular communication network and enable the device to operate within the vehicular communication network in accordance with the use mode. The network node module is securely reconfigurable to any use mode in the set of use modes.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENTS

The present U.S. Utility Application claims priority under 35 USC§119(e) to a provisionally filed patent application entitled “VehicleCommunication Network,” having a provisional filing date of Nov. 3,2010, and a provisional Ser. No. 61/409,904 (Attorney Docket # BP22410),which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety for allpurposes.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

NOT APPLICABLE

INCORPORATION-BY-REFERENCE OF MATERIAL SUBMITTED ON A COMPACT DISC

NOT APPLICABLE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Technical Field of the Invention

This invention relates generally to communication and more particularlyto data and multimedia communication within a vehicle.

2. Description of Related Art

As is known, a vehicle (e.g., automobile, truck, bus, an agriculturalvehicle, ship, and/or aircraft) includes a vehicle communicationnetwork. The complexity of the vehicle communication network variesdepending on the amount of electronic devices within the vehicle. Forexample, many more advanced vehicles include electronic modules forengine control, transmission control, antilock braking, body control,emissions control, etc. To support the various electronic devices withinthe vehicle, the automotive industry has generated numerouscommunication protocols.

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a prior art vehicularcommunication network that illustrates the various bus protocols and theelectronic devices that utilize such protocols. The bus protocolsinclude: (1) J1850 and/or OBDII, which are typically used for vehiclediagnostic electronic components; (2) Intellibus, which is typicallyused for electronic engine control, transmission control other vehiclesystems such as climate control, and it may also be used fordrive-by-wire electronic control units (ECU); (3) high-speed controllerarea network (CAN), which is typically used for braking systems andengine management systems; (4) distributed system interface (DSI) and/orBosch-Siemens-Temic (BST), which is typically used for safety relatedelectronic devices; (5) byteflight, which is typically used for safetycritical electronic device applications; (6) local interconnect network(LIN), which is typically used for intelligent actuators and/orintelligent sensors; (7) low-speed controller area network (CAN) and/orMotorola® interconnect (MI), which are typically used for low-speedelectronic devices such as Windows, mirrors, seats and/or climatecontrol; (8) mobile media link (MML), domestic digital data (D2B),smartwireX, inter-equipment bus (IEBus), and/or media oriented systemstransport (MOST), which are typically used to support multimediaelectronic devices within a vehicle such as a audio head unit andamplifiers, CD player, a DVD player, a cellular connection, a Bluetoothconnection, peripheral computer connections, rear seat entertainment(RSE) units, a radio, digital storage, and/or a GPS navigation system;(9) Low-Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS), which are typically usedto support, heads up display, instrument panel displays, other digitaldisplays, driver assist digital video cameras, and (10) FlexRay, whichmay be used for safety critical features and/or by-wire applications.

To enable electronic components using different bus protocols tocommunicate with each other, one or more bus gateways may be included inthe vehicle network. For example, in a safety related issue, a safetyECU may need to communicate with a braking ECU, and engine control ECU,and/or a transmission control ECU. In this example, the bus gatewayperforms some degree of protocol conversion to facilitate thecommunication between the ECUs of differing communication protocols.

In addition to providing multiple vehicle network protocols to support avariety of electronic devices within a vehicle, most vehiclemanufacturers are striving for improved fuel efficiency. In this regard,a reduction in weight of 400 pounds is approximately equivalent toreducing continuous power consumption by 100 Watts. As such, by removingweight from a vehicle, fuel efficiency may be improved. As is known, atypical vehicle includes 400 to 600 pounds of wiring, which is thesecond heaviest component in a vehicle; the engine is the heaviest.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWING(S)

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of a prior art vehicularcommunication network;

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a communicationinfrastructure in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of avehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of avehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 12 is a logical diagram of network managing processes for avehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a networkfabric in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of abridge-routing module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a packet egressunit and a packet ingress unit in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a packetegress unit and a packet ingress unit in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of aredundancy/backup module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram of an example of a cable failurewithin a network fabric in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 19 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing acable failure within a network fabric in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram of another example of a cablefailure within a network fabric in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 21 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a cable failure within a network fabric in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 22 is an example diagram of a network topology database inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 23-26 are examples of network fabric spanning tree configurationsin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 27 is a diagram of an embodiment of a modified network frame/packetin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 28 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing apacket in the vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 29 is an example diagram of processing a mission critical packetwithin a vehicle communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 30 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing amission critical packet in the vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 31 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a mission critical packet in the vehicular communicationnetwork in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 32 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a packet in the vehicular communication network in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 33 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a switch modulein accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 34 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a switchmodule in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 35 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing apacket in the vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 36 is an example diagram of packet queues within a vehiclecommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 37-40 are example diagrams of packet queue processing within avehicle communication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 41 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a network nodemodule in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 42 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 43 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 44 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 45 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 46 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 47 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 48 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 49 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 50 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 51 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 52 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 53 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 54 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 55 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 56 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 57 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 58 is a schematic block diagram of an example of an occupantenvironment in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 59 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processingoccupant sensed data in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 60 is a diagram of an example of a moving recording time window inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle black boxin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 62 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a vehicle blackbox in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 63 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of power distributionwithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 64 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of powerdistribution within a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 65 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for controllingpower distribution within a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 66 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forcontrolling power distribution within a vehicular communication networkin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 67 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a network interfacewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 68A is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for managingdevices coupled to a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 68B is a schematic diagram of a network node module for managingdevices coupled to a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 69 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for adding adevice to a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 70A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a new device coupledto a switch module within a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 70B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a new device addedto a network node module in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 71 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing adamaged device of a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 72 is an example diagram of an embodiment of network and/orresource planning within a vehicular communication network in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 73 is an example diagram of an embodiment of a packet queue forconcurrent packet transmissions within a vehicular communication networkin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 74 is an example diagram of concurrent packet transmissions withina vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 75 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for concurrentpacket transmissions within a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 76 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a data bridge withina vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 77 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridgewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 78 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a packet egress unitand a packet ingress unit of a data bridge in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 79 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for transferringpackets between network fabrics within a vehicular communication networkin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 80 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets between network fabrics within a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 81 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridgewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 82 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets between network fabrics within a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 83 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets between network fabrics within a vehicularcommunication network in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 84 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for storing databy a data bridge within a vehicular communication network in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 85 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridgewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 86 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridgewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 87 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wired and wirelessnetwork fabric of a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 87A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wireless networkfabric of a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 88 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bridge/routingmodule within a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 89 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of egress units, anegress sync module, and a packet egress unit of a bridge/routing modulein accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 90 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of ingress units, aningress sync module, and a packet ingress unit of a bridge/routingmodule in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 91 is a diagram of an example of frequency bands and channels of avehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 92 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for wired andwireless packet processing within a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 93 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a switch modulewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 94 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a switch modulewithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 95 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule within a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 96 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule within a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 97 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule within a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 98 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wireless waveguidenetwork fabric of a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 99 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle componenthaving an integrated waveguide of a wireless network fabric of avehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 100 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of infotainment modulescoupled to a network fabric of a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 101 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of an infotainmentmodules coupled to a network fabric of a vehicular communication networkin accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 102 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processinghigh resolution video content of a vehicular communication network inaccordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 103-105 are example diagrams of an embodiment of processing 3Dvideo within a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 106 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of commercial insertionwithin a vehicular communication network in accordance with the presentinvention;

FIG. 107 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for commercialinsertion within a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 108 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for expandingmemory of a vehicular communication network in accordance with thepresent invention;

FIG. 109 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for vehicularcharging in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 110 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for fuelconsumption optimization in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 111 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for fuelconsumption optimization in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 112 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multi-levelpre-processing module of a vehicular communication network in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 113 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multi-level videodecoding module of a vehicular communication network in accordance withthe present invention;

FIG. 114 is a diagram of an example of a pre-processing video inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 115 is a diagram of an example of a low latency video packetorganization in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 116 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for multi-levelvideo processing in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 117 is a diagram of an example of a using multi-level video inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 118 is a diagram of another example of a using multi-level video inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 119 is a diagram of an example of video content authorization inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 120 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for videocontent authorization in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 121 is a diagram of an example of resource sharing in accordancewith the present invention;

FIG. 122 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for resourcesharing in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 123 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forresource sharing in accordance with the present invention;

FIG. 124 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a power managementmodule in accordance with the present invention; and

FIG. 125 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of method for powermanagement in accordance with the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a communicationsystem that includes vehicles 10, a home network 12, a satellitetransceiver 14, a cellular network 16, a highway wireless network 18,the Internet 20, an automobile service provider 22, a server 24, anautomobile manufacturer 26, government 28, and/or automobile marketing30. In this system, each vehicle 10 includes a packet/frame-basedcommunication network that enables it to communicate with othervehicles, with its home network 12, with the satellite transceiver 14(GPS, satellite radio, satellite TV, satellite communication, etc.),with the cellular network 16, and/or with the highway wireless network18. Note that the highway wireless network 18 may include a plurality ofwireless transceivers located proximal to highways, roads, rest areas,etc.

In an example of operation, a vehicle 10 may communicate with anautomobile service provider 22 (e.g., engine tune-up, brake system, atransmission system, etc.) via the cellular network 16, the highwaywireless network 18, and/or its home network 12. Such a communicationincludes the vehicle 10 transmitting data regarding its operationalstatus (e.g., number of hours since last engine tune-up, wear & tear onthe break system, brake fluid level, oil level, transmission fluidlevel, etc.). The automobile service provider 22 interprets theoperational status data to determine if the vehicle 10 is in need ofservice and/or if a component failure is likely to occur in the nearfuture. Based on this interpretation, the automobile service provider 22sends data to the vehicle indicating whether service is needed and mayfurther include data to schedule an appointment for such service.

In another example of operation, a vehicle 10 collects data regardingits performance (e.g., fuel efficiency, component wear & tear, real-timeengine control, real-time braking system control, real-time transmissioncontrol, etc.), which it transmits to the auto manufacturer 26. The automanufacturer 26 utilizes the data for a variety of purposes, such asimproving future designs, determining need for recalls, etc.

In yet another example of operation, a vehicle 10 may communicate with aserver to upload data and/or download data. As a more specific example,the server may provide streaming video of television shows, movies, etc.For a subscription fee, the vehicle 10 downloads the streaming video fordisplay on rear seat entertainment systems and/or other displays withinthe vehicle. As another specific example, the vehicle 10 may upload data(e.g., video taken by cameras of the car, user data contained on alaptop computer, video game inputs and/or controls, etc.) to the server.

In a further example of operation, the vehicle 10 may communicate with agovernment agency 28 (e.g., driver motor vehicle) to update registrationinformation, insurance information, etc. As another example, the vehicle10 may communicate specific performance information (e.g., generalvehicle operation, emissions test, etc.) with the government agency 28for compliance with different government programs (e.g., emissionscontrol, safety check, etc.).

In a still further example of operation, the vehicle 10 may receivemarketing information from an auto-marketing provider 30. For instance,the vehicle 10 may receive commercial information based on the vehicle'slocation, driver's interests, recent communications to and/or from thevehicle, etc.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that includes a unified network fabric 32 (e.g.,Ethernet-based), one or more communication links 34, a gateway 36, aplurality of vehicle control modules 38, a network manager 40, a powermanager 42, one or more processing modules 44, memory 46, and/or one ormore multimedia processing modules 48. The communication links 34 mayinclude wired and/or wireless interfaces to support connectivity withcellular devices, Bluetooth devices, infrared devices, and/or computerperipheral devices. For example, a Bluetooth transceiver may be coupledto the unified network fabric 32 to support Bluetooth communicationswith a portable audio/video unit, with a headset, etc.

The network fabric 32 includes a plurality of bridge-routing modules anda plurality of switch modules (examples of which are shown in FIGS. 13and 87). Within the network fabric 32, a bridge-routing module isredundantly coupled to one or more adjacent bridge-routing modules and aswitch module is redundantly coupled to one or more bridge-routingmodules. The network fabric 32 may be divided into sub-network fabricsthat are coupled together via a data bridge. As an example, the networkfabric includes a data bridge, a first sub-network fabric operablycoupled to first sub-set of the vehicle control modules, and a secondsub-network fabric operably coupled to second sub-set of the vehiclecontrol modules. The data bridge facilitates (e.g., initiates, issues aninstruction, performs, etc.) communication of a sub-set of the packetsbetween the first and second sub-network fabrics. Further examples ofthe network fabric being partitioned into sub-network fabrics are shownin FIGS. 4, 5, and one or more of the remaining subsequent figures.

The gateway 36 may include one or more wireless transceivers to supportcommunication with the highway network, with a home network, and/or tosupport diagnostic ports for communication with the automobile serviceproviders, the automobile manufacturers, etc. Such a wirelesstransceiver includes a network interface, which enables it to connect tothe unified network fabric 32.

A vehicle control module 38 may be one or more processing modules, anetwork node module, an electronic control unit, and/or a vehicleassembly. As an example, a vehicle control module 38 (which may also bereferred to as a network node module) includes a network interface andat least one device. If the device is an analog device, the vehiclecontrol module 38 further includes an analog to digital converter and/ora digital to analog converter. Such devices may include a sensor, anactuator, an intelligent sensor, an intelligent actuator, an electroniccontrol unit (ECU), and/or a control device. As another example, avehicle assembly includes a switching circuit module, a plurality ofnetwork interfaces operably coupled to the switch circuit module, and aplurality of devices operably coupled to the plurality of networkinterfaces. Various examples of vehicle control modules will bediscussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 41-57.

The network manager 40 performs a variety of functions to coordinatepacket communication within the vehicle communication network and tofacilitate network resource management. For example, the network manager40 coordinate communication of packets, via the network fabric 32, amongthe vehicle control modules 38, the memory 46, and the multimediaprocessing module(s) 48 based on individual content of the packets andin accordance with a global vehicle network communication protocol. Theglobal vehicle network communication protocol includes informationregarding a network fabric formatting of the packets, (e.g., packetformat as shown in FIG. 26), information regarding packet transmissionprioritization schemes (e.g., mission critical packets having a higherpriority, infotainment (information and/or entertainment) packets havinga lower priority, etc.), information regarding network managementprocessing (e.g., network fabric resources and devices coupled to thenetwork fabric), and information regarding vehicle network operationparameters (e.g., network configuration management). FIGS. 28-32illustrate one or more examples of packet communication in accordancewith the global network communication protocol.

As another example, the network manager 40 facilitates (e.g., initiates,issues an instruction, performs, etc.) network resource management tosupport the communication of packets via the network fabric inaccordance with the global vehicle network communication protocol. Forinstance, the network manager 40 performs access prioritizationmanagement, bandwidth allocation management, packet redundancymanagement, link redundancy management, data transmission latencymanagement, link diagnostics, network security, virtual local areanetwork setup, legacy packet/frame management, adding and/or deletingdevices from access to the network, etc.

The power manager 42 functions in concert with the network manager 40 tooptimize power consumption of the unified network fabric 32 and/or thedevices coupled thereto. For instance, the power manager 42 may managethe devices individually, may manage and island of devices, and/or maymanage power to network interfaces. Such power management includes asleep-wake mode, an on-off power mode, in-use power consumptionreduction techniques (e.g., reduce power supply voltage, reduced clockrate, current limit, etc.), and/or utilizing low power communicationlinks at the physical layer.

The processing modules 44 may implement one or more electronic controlunits (ECU), one or more control units, one or more steer by wirecontrollers, one or more drive by wire controllers, one or more centralprocessing units, one or more co-processing units, and/or one or moreother controllers. The processing module 44 may be a single processingdevice or a plurality of processing devices. Such a processing devicemay be a microprocessor, micro-controller, digital signal processor,microcomputer, central processing unit, field programmable gate array,programmable logic device, state machine, logic circuitry, analogcircuitry, digital circuitry, and/or any device that manipulates signals(analog and/or digital) based on hard coding of the circuitry and/oroperational instructions. The processing module 44 may have anassociated memory and/or memory element, which may be a single memorydevice, a plurality of memory devices, and/or embedded circuitry of theprocessing module. Such a memory device may be a read-only memory,random access memory, volatile memory, non-volatile memory, staticmemory, dynamic memory, flash memory, cache memory, and/or any devicethat stores digital information. Note that if the processing module 44includes more than one processing device, the processing devices may becentrally located (e.g., directly coupled together via a wired and/orwireless bus structure) or may be distributedly located (e.g., cloudcomputing via indirect coupling via a local area network and/or a widearea network). Further note that when the processing module 44implements one or more of its functions via a state machine, analogcircuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory and/ormemory element storing the corresponding operational instructions may beembedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the statemachine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry.Still further note that, the memory element stores, and the processingmodule 44 executes, hard coded and/or operational instructionscorresponding to at least some of the steps and/or functions illustratedin one or more of the Figures.

The memory 46 may be a variety of memory devices such as nonvolatilememory, volatile memory, disk drive, memory, solid-state memory, and/orany other type of memory. The memory 46 may be used for storingmulti-media files (e.g., video files, audio files, etc.), electroniccontrol unit applications, multimedia applications, diagnostic data,performance data, and/or any other data associated with the use and/orperformance of the vehicle.

The multimedia processing module 48 provides audio, video, text, and/orgraphics processing for the vehicle. For instance, the multimediaprocessing module 48 supports a GPS navigation system, provides renderedvideo and/or graphic images to displays, processes digital imagesreceived by cameras, and/or provides images to other audio/videoequipment within the vehicle. The multimedia processing module 48 may bea single processing device or a plurality of processing devices. Such aprocessing device may be a microprocessor, micro-controller, digitalsignal processor, microcomputer, central processing unit, fieldprogrammable gate array, programmable logic device, state machine,and/or any device that manipulates signals (analog and/or digital) basedon hard coding of the circuitry and/or operational instructions. Themultimedia processing module 48 may have an associated memory and/ormemory element, which may be a single memory device, a plurality ofmemory devices, and/or embedded circuitry of the processing module. Sucha memory device may be a read-only memory, random access memory,volatile memory, non-volatile memory, static memory, dynamic memory,flash memory, cache memory, and/or any device that stores digitalinformation. Note that if the multimedia processing module 48 includesmore than one processing device, the processing devices may be centrallylocated (e.g., directly coupled together via a wired and/or wireless busstructure) or may be distributedly located (e.g., cloud computing viaindirect coupling via a local area network and/or a wide area network).Further note that when the multimedia processing module 48 implementsone or more of its functions via a state machine, analog circuitry,digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry, the memory and/or memoryelement storing the corresponding operational instructions may beembedded within, or external to, the circuitry comprising the statemachine, analog circuitry, digital circuitry, and/or logic circuitry.Still further note that, the memory element stores, and the multimediaprocessing module 48 executes, hard coded and/or operationalinstructions corresponding to at least some of the steps and/orfunctions illustrated in one or more of the Figures.

In an example of operation, a vehicle control module (e.g., a sensor)generates a packet in accordance with the global vehicle networkcommunication protocol (e.g., formats the packet in accordance with theinformation regarding a network fabric formatting of the packets, (e.g.,packet format as shown in FIG. 26)). The vehicle control module thentransmits the packet via the network fabric in accordance with theglobal vehicle network communication protocol. For instance, the networkfabric routes the packet based on content type of the packet (and thedestination address) to another vehicle control module and/or to themultimedia processing module.

The multimedia processing module may also generate a packet inaccordance with the global vehicle network communication protocol andsubsequently transmits it via the network fabric in accordance with theglobal vehicle network communication protocol. The network fabric routesthe packet based on content type of the packet (and the destinationaddress) to the vehicle control module, the other vehicle controlmodule, and/or to the multimedia processing module.

In such a vehicle communication network, the unified network fabric 32has an Ethernet bus structure (or other packet/frame structure) thatenables packet/frame-based communication among the plurality ofelectronic devices within a vehicle. In addition, the vehiclecommunication network is a semi-static network thereby allowingpreconfigured spanning trees to be utilized for fast reconfiguration ofthe network; has configured dedicated bandwidth allocation for at leastsome of the devices to ensure a particular level of data throughput formission critical and some non-mission critical applications; supportsvirtualized local area networks; supports a centralized and/ordistributed bus monitoring system; utilizes a new class of packets forcar control; supports security and authentication of device replacementand or new device installment; supports lossless Ethernet transmissionsthrough redundant paths; supports a low latency protocol formission-critical packets; and/or supports fast link fail-over.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that is divided into two sub-networks coupledtogether via a data bridge 64. The first sub-network supportsmission-critical devices and mission-critical functions (e.g., safetyrelated devices and/or functions, engine control devices and/orfunctions, braking devices and/or functions, video imaging devices andor functions related to safety and/or critical operation of the vehicle,etc.). In this example, the mission-critical network fabric 50 iscoupled to a mission-critical multimedia processing module 52,mission-critical memory 54, one or more mission-critical processingmodules 56, one or more mission-critical vehicle control modules 58, oneor more mission-critical communication links 60, the network manager 62,the data bridge 64, and the power manager 66.

The second sub-network supports non-mission critical devices and/orfunctions (e.g., video game, GPS navigation, audio/video playback,window operation, seat operation, climate control, etc.). In thisexample, the non-mission critical network fabric 68 is coupled to agateway 70, one or more local ports 72, non-critical process multimediaprocessing module 74, non-mission-critical memory 76, one or morenon-mission-critical processing modules 78, one or morenon-mission-critical vehicle control modules 80, one or morenon-mission-critical communication links 82, the network manager 62, thedata bridge 64, and the power manager 66. Note that the local port 72provides wireless and/or wired connectivity to one or more smart devices84 (e.g., a cell phone, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, etc.).

The data bridge 64 (which will be described in greater detail withreference to FIGS. 76-86) provides coupling between the two networkfabrics. For instance, if a mission-critical packet is to be broadcastthroughout the network (e.g., both the mission-critical network fabric50 and the non-mission-critical fabric 68), the data bridge 64 receivesthe packet from the mission-critical network fabric 50, interprets it todetermine that is a broadcast packet and is of a mission-criticalnature. Based on this interpretation, the data bridge 64 forwards themission-critical packet to the non-mission critical network fabric 68for transmission therein. The data bridge 64 also processes packets fromthe non-mission critical network fabric 68 for transmission within themission-critical network fabric 50. In this instance, the data bridge 64interprets the non-mission critical packet to determine whether itshould be provided to the mission-critical network fabric 50. If so, thedata bridge 64 forwards the packet to the mission-critical networkfabric 50.

The network manager 62 and power manager 66 generally function asdescribed with reference to FIG. 3 and as subsequently described in oneor more of the following figures. Note that the data bridge 64, networkmanager 62, and power manager 66 may be separate devices, may be withina common device, or a combination thereof. Further note that while thevehicle communication network is divided into two network fabrics, itmay be divided into three or more network fabrics based on functionalrelationships.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that is divided into two sub-networks coupledtogether via a data bridge 102. The first sub-network supports vehicleoperation devices and functions and the second sub-network supportsinfo-tainment devices and functions. For instance, the vehicle operationnetwork fabric 88 is coupled to one or more vehicle operation multimediaprocessing modules 90 (e.g., GPS, collision detection/avoidance, etc.),one or more vehicle operation memory devices 92, one or more vehicleoperation processing modules 94, one more vehicle operation controlmodules 94, one of more vehicle operation communication links 98, thenetwork manager 100, the data bridge 102, and the power manager 104.

The second sub-network fabric is coupled to a gateway 108, theninformation/entertainment multimedia processing module 110, andinformation/entertainment memory 112, and information/entertainmentprocessing module 114, one or more information/entertainment controlmodules 116, one or more information/entertainment communication links118, the network manager 100, the data bridge 102, and the power manager104. The information/entertainment may include audio and/or videoplayback of audio/video files, recording images captured by thevehicle's cameras, video games, etc.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that includes a unified network fabric 124, one ormore communication links 126, a gateway 128, the network manager 130,the power manager 132, one of more multimedia processing modules 134, aplurality of user input and/or output interfaces 136 (e.g., seat adjust,windowed control, radio control, mirror control, GPS control, cruisecontrol, etc.), and a plurality of network node modules. Each of thenetwork node modules includes a network interface for coupling to theunified network fabric and at least one device.

The devices may include one or more of each of an engine managementelectronic control unit 138, an engine management actuator 140, anengine management sensor 142, an engine control electronic control unit144, an engine control actuator 146, an engine control sensor 148, adiagnostic electronic control unit 150, a diagnostic sensor 152, adiagnostic actuator 154, a window electronic control unit 156, a windowactuator 158, a window sensor 160, a mirror electronic control unit 162,a mirror actuator 164, a mirror sensor 166, a seat electronic controlunit 168, a seat actuator 170, a seat sensor 172, a climate electroniccontrol unit 174, a climate actuator 176, a climate sensor 178, a safetysensor electronic control unit 180, a safety actuator 182, a safetysensor 184, a safety critical application electronic control unit 186, asafety critical actuator 188, a safety critical sensor 190, a brakingsystem electronic control unit 192, a breaking actuator 194, a breakingsensor 196, a by-wire application electronic control unit 198, a by-wireactuator 200, a by-wire sensor 202, a transmission control electroniccontrol unit 204, a transmission sensor 206, a transmission actuator208, a vehicle system electronic control unit 210, a vehicle systemactuator 212, a vehicle system Sensor 214, a DVD player 216, a cellulartelephone interface 218, a Bluetooth interface 220, a computerperipheral interface 222, a rear seat entertainment interface and/orunit 224, a radio 226, digital storage 228, a CD player 230, a camera232, a display 234, a heads-up display 236, a GPS navigation system 238,an infrared sensor 240, a radio frequency sensor 242, an intelligentactuator 244, and/or an intelligent sensor 246.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that includes a unified network fabric 124, one ormore communication links 126, a gateway 128, the network manager 130,the power manager 132, one of more multimedia processing modules 134, aplurality of processing modules 248-254, and a plurality of network nodemodules. Each of the processing modules and each of the network nodemodules include a network interface for coupling to the unified networkfabric 124 and at least one device. The network node modules may besimilar to the modules of FIG. 6.

Each of the processing modules performs one or more functions. Forinstance, one of the processing modules may perform the electroniccontrol functions for the engine, which include, but are not limited to,engine management, vehicle system operations, engine control, and enginediagnostics. Another processing module may perform user environmentelectronic control functions, which include, but are not limited to,window operation, seat operation, mirror operation, and climate control.Yet another processing module may perform safety related electroniccontrol functions, which include, but are not limited to, criticalsafety issues (e.g., air bags) and general safety issues (e.g., turnsignal, brake lights, etc.). Still another processing module may performvehicle operation electronic control functions, which include, but arenot limited to, by-wire operations, transmission control, brakingcontrol, etc.

FIG. 8 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that includes a mission critical network fabric256, a non-mission critical network fabric 258, the data bridge 260, thenetwork manager 130, and the power manager 132. The mission-criticalnetwork fabric 256 is coupled to a plurality of mission-critical networknode modules, which include one or more communication links 126, anengine management electronic control unit 138, one or more enginemanagement actuators 140, one or more engine management sensors 142, anengine control electronic control unit 144, one or more engine controlactuators 146, one or more engine control sensors 148, a safety criticalapplications electronic control unit 190, one or more safety criticalactuators 186, one or more safety critical sensors 188, a safetyelectronic control unit 180, one or more safety actuators 182, one ormore safety sensors 184, one or more infrared sensors 240, one more RFsensors 242, a by-wire or electronic control unit 198, one or moreby-wire actuators 200, one or more by-wire sensors 202, a transmissionelectronic control unit 204, one or more transmission sensors 206, oneor more transition actuators 208, a braking system electronic controlunit 192, one or more breaking actuators 194, one more breaking sensors196, a vehicle system electronic control unit 210, one or more vehiclesystem actuators 212, one or more vehicle system sensors 214, amission-critical multi-media processing module 262, and/or one moremission-critical cameras 264.

The non-mission critical network fabric 258 is coupled to a plurality ofnon-mission critical network node modules, which include one or morecommunication links 126, one or more multimedia processing modules 134,a window electronic control unit 156, one or more window actuators 158,one or more window sensors 160, a mirror electronic control units 162,one or more minor actuators 164, one or more minor sensors 166, a seatelectronic control unit 168, one or more seat actuators 170, one or moreseat sensors 172, a climate electronic control unit 174, one or moreclimate actuators 176, one or more climate sensors 178, a diagnosticelectronic control unit 150, one or more diagnostic sensors 152, one ormore diagnostic actuators 154, a gateway 128, a DVD player 216, acellular telephone interface 218, a Bluetooth interface 220, one or morecomputer peripheral interfaces 222, a rear seat entertainment unitand/or interface 224, a radio 226, digital storage 228, a CD player 230,one or more cameras 232, one or more displays 234, a heads-up display236, a GPS navigation system 238, one or more intelligent actuators 244,one or more intelligent sensors 246, and/or one or more user inputand/or output interfaces 136.

FIG. 9 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a vehicularcommunication network that includes a vehicle operation network fabric266, an information/entertainment (infotainment) network fabric 268, thedata bridge 260, the network manager 130, and the power manager 132. Thevehicle operation network fabric 266 is coupled to a plurality ofvehicle operation network node modules, which include one or morecommunication links 126, an engine management electronic control unit138, one or more engine management actuators 140, one or more enginemanagement sensors 142, an engine control electronic control unit 144,one or more engine control actuators 146, one or more engine controlsensors 148, a safety critical applications electronic control unit 190,one or more safety critical actuators 186, one or more safety criticalsensors 188, a safety electronic control unit 180, one or more safetyactuators 182, one or more safety sensors 184, one or more infraredsensors 240, one more RF sensors 242, a by-wire or electronic controlunit 198, one or more by-wire actuators 200, one or more by-wire sensors202, a transmission electronic control unit 204, one or moretransmission sensors 206, one or more transition actuators 208, abraking system electronic control unit 192, one or more breakingactuators 194, one more breaking sensors 196, a vehicle systemelectronic control unit 210, one or more vehicle system actuators 212,one or more vehicle system sensors 214, a vehicle operation multi-mediaprocessing module 270, one more vehicle operation cameras 272, a windowelectronic control unit 156, one or more window actuators 158, or morewindow sensors 160, a mirror electronic control units 162, one or moremirror actuators 164, one or more minor sensors 166, a seat electroniccontrol unit 168, one or more seat actuators 170, one or more seatsensors 172, a climate electronic control unit 174, one or more climateactuators 176, one or more climate sensors 178, a diagnostic electroniccontrol unit 150, one or more diagnostic sensors 152, one or morediagnostic actuators 154.

The infotainment critical network fabric 268 is coupled to a pluralityof infotainment network node modules, which include one or morecommunication links 126, one or more multimedia processing modules 134,a gateway 128, a DVD player 216, a cellular telephone interface 218, aBluetooth interface 220, one or more computer peripheral interfaces 222,a rear seat entertainment unit and/or interface 224, a radio, digitalstorage 226, a CD player 230, one or more cameras 232, one or moredisplays 234, a heads-up display 236, a GPS navigation system 238, oneor more intelligent actuators 244, one or more intelligent sensors 246,and/or one or more user input and/or output interfaces 136.

FIG. 10 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of avehicular communication network that includes a unified network fabric124, a plurality of assemblies, one or more communication links 126, agateway 128, a network manager 130, one or more processing modules 274,one or more of multimedia processing modules 134, and a power manager132. The plurality of assemblies include a left rear assembly 276, aleft rear tire assembly 278, a left right passenger door assembly 280, adriver door assembly 282, a left front tire assembly 284, a left frontassembly 286, a rear left passenger seat assembly 288, a driver's seatassembly 290, a steering wheel assembly 292, a braking assembly 294, atransmission assembly 296, a center front assembly 298, an engineassembly 300, a right front assembly 302, a right front tire assembly304, a front passenger door assembly 306, a rear right passenger doorassembly 308, a right rear tire assembly 310, a right rear assembly 312,a dashboard assembly 314, a front passenger seat assembly 316, a rightrear passenger seat assembly 318, and a rear center assembly 320.

An assembly includes a switching circuit, a plurality of networkinterfaces, and a plurality of devices. For example, the left front,right front, left rear and right rear assemblies each may include aswitching circuit, a plurality of network interfaces, a plurality ofdigital to analog converters, a plurality of analog to digitalconverters, one or more headlamp actuators, one or more taillightactuators, one or more cameras, were more like sensors, were more RFsensors, one or more IR sensors, and or one or more environmentalsensors. The various assemblies will be described in greater detail withreference to FIGS. 48-57. Note that more or less assemblies may becoupled to the unified network fabric 124.

FIG. 11 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of avehicular communication network that includes a mission-critical networkfabric 322, a non-mission critical network fabric 324, the networkmanager 130, the power manager 132, and the data bridge 260. Themission-critical network fabric 322 is coupled to one of morecommunication links 126, one or more processing modules 274, and aplurality of assemblies. The non-mission critical network fabric 322 iscoupled to the gateway 128, one or more communication links 126, one ormore multimedia processing modules 134, one or more processing modules274, and a plurality of assemblies.

Of the plurality of assemblies, some are coupled to the mission-criticalnetwork fabric 322, some are coupled to the non-mission critical networkfabric 324, and some are coupled to both network fabrics. For instance,the left rear assembly 276, the left rear tire assembly 278, the leftright passenger door assembly 280, the driver door assembly 282, theleft front tire assembly 284, the left front assembly 286, the dashboardassembly 314, the steering wheel assembly 392, the center front assembly298, the right front assembly 302, the right front tire assembly 304,the front passenger door assembly 306, the right rear passenger doorassembly 308, the right rear tire assembly 310, and the right rearassembly 312, and the center rear assembly 320 are each coupled to bothnetwork fabrics. In this embodiment, each of these assemblies includesone or more mission-critical devices (e.g., airbag sensor, airbagactuator, collision indication, collision avoidance, etc.) and one ormore non-mission critical devices (e.g., tire pressure sensor, windowuser interface, etc.).

The engine assembly 300, transmission assembly 296, and braking assembly294 are coupled to the mission-critical network fabric 322. The rearleft passenger seat assembly 288, the driver seat assembly 290, thefront passenger seat assembly 316, and the right rear passenger seatassembly 318 are coupled to the non-mission critical network fabric 324.

FIG. 12 is a diagram of network managing processes 326 for a vehicularcommunication network that includes four high-level managementfunctions: resource management 328, network data type management 330,network configuration management 332, and device management 334.Resource management 328 includes, but is not limited to, link failuremanagement 336, link degeneration management 338, management ofcommunication between bridge/routing modules 340, management ofcommunication between bridge/routing modules and switching modules,management of communication switching modules and network node modules,frequency allocation 342, bandwidth allocation 344, adding deleting orupdating a bridge/routing module 346, adding deleting or updating anetwork node module, and/or adding deleting or updating a switch module348. The resource management 328 tasks will be discussed in greaterdetail with reference to one or more of the subsequent figures.

The network data type management 330 includes, but is not limited to,managing classification, routing, forwarding, and/or filtering of apackets between modules of the network fabric 350, managing the networktopology and packet transmissions thereof 352, managing transmission ofmission-critical packets 354, managing transmission ofinformation/entertainment packets 356, and managing transmission ofvehicle operation packets 358. The networking data type management taskswill be discussed in greater detail with reference to one or more of thesubsequent figures.

The network configuration management 332 includes, but is not limitedto, network and resource planning 360, managing semi-static spanningtree configurations 362, network resource allocation 364, managingtraffic routing 366, managing load-balancing 368, managing encryption370, managing security 372, and fault tolerance management 374. Thenetwork configuration management tasks will be discussed in greaterdetail with reference to one or more of the subsequent figures.

The device management 334 includes, but is not limited to, updatingdevices 376, adding devices to the network 378, deleting devices fromthe network 380, and managing the damage devices coupled to the network382. The device management tasks will be discussed in greater detailwith reference to one or more of the subsequent figures.

FIG. 13 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a networkfabric 384 that includes a plurality of bridge-routing modules 386 and aplurality of switch modules 388. The switch modules 388 are coupled toone or more network node modules 390 and to at least one bridge-routingmodule 386. Each of the bridge-routing modules 386 are coupled to atleast one switching module 388 and at least one other bridge-routingmodule 386. The coupling between bridge-routing modules 386 and betweenbridge-routing modules 386 and switch modules 388 includes multiplecables (e.g., unshielded twisted pair, shielded twisted pair, coaxialcable, category 5 or 6 cables, fiber optics, etc.).

The network fabric 384 may be used within the unified network fabric 384or the multiple network fabric communication networks of the precedingfigures. Note that more or less switching modules 388 and bridge-routingmodules 386 may be included in the network fabric 384. Further note thatthe multiple connections between switching modules 388 andbridge-routing modules 386 may include two or more cables where one ofthe cables is active and the other is used for fail over or redundancy.Still further note that a network node module 390 may be directlyconnected to a bridge-routing module 386.

FIG. 14 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of abridge-routing module 386 that includes a plurality of interfacecircuits, e.g. redundancy/backup modules 392, a packet egress unit 394,a packet ingress unit 396, a processing module 398, and memory 400. Theprocessing module 398 is configured to implement a local networkmanagement function 401, a bridging function 403, and or a routingfunction 405. The memory 400 stores network information in one or moretables and/or databases. For instance, the memory 400 may store aforwarding database 402, a filtering database 404, a routing table 406,a network protocol database 408, and information/entertainment database410, a vehicle operations database 412, a mission-critical database 414,and a predetermined network topology database 416.

In an example of operation, one of the redundancy/backup modules 392receives a packet 418. The packet 418 is routed to the packet ingressunit 396, where the local network management function 401 interprets thepacket 418. Such an interpretation includes determining the type ofpacket (e.g., mission critical, network data, info-entertainment,vehicle operation, etc.). Determining the type of packet can includedetermining the type of content carried by the packet, i.e. the packetcontent type. Having identified the packet 418, and the packet contenttype, the local network management function 401 determines theprocessing for the packet 418 and then processes the packet 418accordingly. Determining the processing for the packet 418 includes, insome embodiments, determining packet routing parameters based on thepacket content type.

As a specific example, when the local network management function 401determines that the packet 418 is related to a vehicle operation, itaccesses the vehicle operation database 412 to determine if any specificprocessing is to be performed and/or priority of the packet 418, source,and/or destination. If no specific processing is to be performed, theprocessing module 398 evokes the bridging function 403 and/or therouting function 405 to forward or route the packet 418 to anotherbridge-routing module, to a switch module, or locally via one of theredundancy/backup modules 392 in accordance with its priority level.Note that the bridging, which uses the forwarding database 402, is doneat a data link layer using MAC addresses of physical devices and therouting, which uses the routing table 406, is done at the network layerand uses IP addresses, which may not be tied to a physical device.Further note that the bridging and/or routing function may use thefiltering database 404 to preclude forwarding of a packet to aparticular device or IP address identified in the filtering database404.

If the local network management function 401 determines that the packet418 does have specific performance requirements (e.g., store the data inmemory 400, forward to the gateway for transmission to an externaldevice, etc.), the local network management function 401 processes thepacket 418 accordingly. Depending on the nature of the specificperformance requirements, the processing module 398 may also evoke thebridging function 403 and/or routing function 405 to route the packet418 to another bridge-routing module 386, to a switch module, and/orlocally to another redundant/backup module 392.

Prior to forwarding the packet 418 to another bridge-routing module 386,or switch module, the local network management function 401 may accessthe network protocol database 408 to determine if a particular type ofcommunication with the other bridge-routing module 386 or switchingmodule is used. For example, most communications within the networkfabric will use a default communication protocol (e.g., 100 Mbps or 1Gbps Ethernet), however, some communications within the network fabricmay deviate from the default communication protocol. For instance,between two bridge-routing modules, 10 Gb Ethernet may be used ornon-standard speeds such as 200 Mbps, or 2.5 Gbps Ethernet may be usedbetween a particular bridge-routing module 386 and a particular switchmodule.

As another specific example, the packet 418 may relate to amission-critical function. In this instance, the processing module 398accesses the mission-critical database 414 to determine itsmission-critical priority level and other routing and/or forwardingaspects and parameters. Based on this information, the local networkmanagement function 401 processes the packet 418.

If the packet 418 relates to network data, the processing module 398accesses the predetermined network topology database 416, which mayinclude a listing of preconfigured spanning tree network topologies. Inthis instance, the network packet is sent due to a link failure, whichrequires reconfiguration of the network. By accessing the networktopology database 416, the bridge-routing module 386 quicklyreconfigures based on the spanning tree network topology selected.

After the processing module 398 has processed the packet 418, the packetegress unit 394 receives the processed packet. Based on informationreceived from the processing module 398, the packet ingress unit 396places the packet 418 in a queue for subsequent transmission via one ofthe redundancy-backup modules 392.

FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a packet egressunit 394 and a packet ingress unit 396, which are coupled to theprocessing module 398. The packet ingress unit 396 includes a pluralityof ports, a switching circuit 420, and an ingress buffer 422. The packetegress unit 394 includes a first logical multiplexer 424, one or morepacket egress queues, a second logical multiplexer 246, a switchingcircuit 428, and a plurality of ports.

In an example of operation, the packet ingress unit 396 receives apacket via one of the ports, which are coupled to the redundancy/backupmodules. The switching circuit 420, which may include a plurality ofswitches and a control unit to couple one of the ports to be switchingcircuit output, outputs the packet to the ingress buffer 422 and to theprocessing module 398. The processing module 398 interprets the packetto determine its priority within the ingress buffer 422 and to determineits priority within the packet egress unit 394. For example, if thepacket is determined to be a high priority packet, the processing module398 will place the packet at the front of the ingress buffer 422 suchthat it is the next packet to be provided to the packet egress unit 394.

The first logical multiplexer 424 of the packet egress unit 394 receivesa packet from the packet ingress unit 396. Based on a control signal 430from the processing module 398, the first logical multiplexer 424 routesthe packets to one of a plurality of packet egress queues. Each of thepacket egress queues may be used for a specific type of packets, orpackets having a specific type of content. For example, a first packetegress queue may be used for mission-critical packets, a second packetegress queue may use for vehicle operation packets, a third packetegress queue may be used for entertainment packets, etc. In thealternative, the packet egress unit may omit the first logicalmultiplexer 424 by using a single packet egress queue.

The processing module 398 controls the packet's prioritization placementin the selected queue based on the priority level of the packet. Forexample, if the packet is a safety related mission-critical packet, itmay be placed at the front of the mission critical packet egress queuesuch that it is the next packet to be outputted by the packet egressunit 394.

With multiple packets in the packet egress queues, the processing module398 selects one of the packets to be outputted via the second logicalmultiplexer 426 to the switching circuit 428. For example, theprocessing module 398 may access one or more of the databases todetermine a prioritization scheme to determine the packet having thecurrent highest priority. The packet with the current highest priorityis outputted via the second logical multiplexer 428 to the switchingcircuit 428, which outputs the packet to one of the egress ports.

FIG. 16 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a packetegress unit 394 and a packet ingress unit 396, which are coupled to theprocessing module 398. The packet ingress unit 396 includes a pluralityof ports, a switching circuit 420, a top priority processing unit 432,and an ingress buffer 422. The packet egress unit 394 includes a firstlogical multiplexer 424, one or more packet egress queues, a secondlogical multiplexer 426, a switching circuit 428, and a plurality ofports.

In an example of operation, the packet ingress unit 396 receives apacket via one of the ports, which are coupled to the redundancy/backupmodules. The switching circuit 420 outputs the packet to the toppriority processing unit 432. The top priority processing unit 432interprets the packet to determine its priority. If the packet is a toppriority packet (e.g., a packet of the highest priority), the toppriority processing unit 432 forwards the packet directly to theswitching circuit 428 of the packet egress unit 394 for immediatetransmission via one of the ports. In this instance, if the switchingcircuit 428 is currently outputting a packet, the top priority packetmay interrupt the packet.

In addition, the top priority processing units 432 provides itsinterpretation of the packets to the processing module 398. For toppriority packets, the processing module 398 takes a snapshot of thecurrent ingress buffer 422 and the packet egress queues such that if thetop priority interrupts a current packet transmission, the packettransmission may be resumed once the top priority packet has beentransmitted. If the current packet is not a top priority packet, theprocessing module 398 processes it as previously discussed withreference to FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a vehiclenetwork link module within a bridge-routing module 396 (and/or it couldbe within a switching module). The vehicle network link module includesa plurality of network fabric ports 444, a module port (e.g., ingressport 436 and/or egress port 434), a switching circuit 442, and a linkmanager processing module (e.g., link manager 440 and/or a processingmodule 438). Each of the interconnecting network fabric ports 444 arecoupled via a cable with interconnecting ports 444 of a redundancy/backup module 392 of another bridge-routing module 386 or of a switchmodule. The ingress port 436 is coupled to the packet ingress unit ofthe bridge-routing module 386 (or of a switch module) and the egressport 434 is coupled to the packet egress unit of the bridge-routingmodule 386 (or of a switch module).

In an example of operation, one of the interconnecting ports 444 isactive to receive or transmit a packet to/from the other bridge-routingmodule 386 or to/from a switch module. For inbound packets, the activeport provides the packet to the switching circuit 442, which providesthe inbound packet to the ingress port 436 for forwarding to the packetingress unit. For outbound packets, the egress port 434 provides apacket from the packet egress unit to the switching circuit 442, whichcouples the egress port 434 to the active interconnecting port. Theactive interconnecting port 444 then outputs the outbound packet.

The link manager 440, alone or in combination with the processing module438, monitors the “health” of the transmissions and receptions ofpackets via the active interconnecting port 444. For example, if thedata rate of transmissions via the active interconnecting port 444 islower than a desired threshold due to errors, other factors, or thecable is broken, then the link may be flagged as being in a degenerativestate. If the degenerative state compares unfavorably to a threshold,the link manager 440 may deactivate the current active interconnectingport and activate another interconnecting port 444.

In addition to monitoring the health of a link, the link manager 440also determines a use mode such as backup transmissions and/or backupreceptions of packets via a second interconnecting port 444. In thisinstance, the link manager 440 communicates with the switching circuit442 to enable multiple interconnecting ports 444 to be coupled to theegress port 434 or to the ingress port 436 such that paralleltransmissions of a packet or parallel receptions of the packets mayoccur. The link manager 440 also indicates which of the links is theprimary link and which is the backup link. Typically, packets will beprocessed via the primary link. If, however, the primary link has afailure (e.g., an unacceptable degenerative state or is broken), thepacket can be processed from the backup link without loss of data.

The link manager 440 is further operable to support various networkprotocols as established by the processing module 438. For example, ifthe processing module 438 issues a control signal to change the couplingto a difference bridge-routing module 386, the link manager 440 of thecurrent redundancy/backup module 382 deactivates the interconnectingport 444, or ports, and a link manager 440 of another redundancy/backupmodule 382 activates one or more interconnecting ports 444 to connect tothe new bridge-routing module 386. Note that the redundancies/backupmodules 392 of a bridge-routing module 386 may each have its own linkmanager 440, may share a common link manager 440, or a link manager 440may support a subset of the redundancy/backup modules 392.

In another example of operation, the link manager processing moduledetermines that the packet conveyance via a network link has degeneratedbelow the threshold due to data bandwidth of a communication mediumcoupling the active network fabric port to a corresponding activenetwork fabric port of the other vehicle network fabric link modulebeing below a desired data bandwidth level. In other words, the linkcannot support the data rate that is currently being requested totransmit. In this instance, the link manager processing module changesthe use mode to an aggregation mode such that the active network fabricport and the new active network port are coupled to the port via theswitching circuit for aggregate packet transmissions. In this manner,two or more connections are used in parallel to convey packets betweenthe bridge routing modules and/or switch modules.

The link manager processing module may determine whether vehicle networkpacket conveyance has degenerated below the threshold in a variety ofways. For example, the manager processing module determines that acommunication medium coupling the active network fabric port to acorresponding active network fabric port of the other vehicle networkfabric link module is broken (e.g., cable broke, HW failure, SW failureof port). As another example, the link manager processing moduledetermines that the communication medium coupling the active networkfabric port to the corresponding active network fabric port of the othervehicle network fabric link module has an undesired bit error rate. Inyet another example, the link manager processing module determines thatthe communication medium coupling the active network fabric port to thecorresponding active network fabric port of the other vehicle networkfabric link module has a data bandwidth below a desired data bandwidthlevel.

The link manager 440 may also keep a history of the performance of eachlink to further aid in network reconfiguration decisions, fast failoverdecisions, etc. To facilitate tracking the performance of each link, thelink manager 440 may periodically test a link during idle times. Thelink manager 440 may employ a variety of testing techniques to test theperformance of the links and may use the performance history of eachlink and/or port to select the active network port.

While the present illustration of a redundancy/backup module 392includes one egress port 434, one ingress port 436, and threeinterconnecting ports 444, each redundancy/backup module 392 may includemultiple ingress ports 436, multiple egress ports 434, and/or more orless than three interconnecting ports 444. For example, theredundancy/backup module 392 may include two egress ports 434 and twoingress ports 436 to support concurrent transmission of packets. In thisinstance, the switching circuit 442 couples two of the interconnectingports 444 to the two egress ports 434 or to the two ingress ports 436 asdirected by the link manager 440.

FIG. 18 is a schematic block diagram of an example of a cable failure446 within a network fabric. The cable failure 446 may result from aphysical break of the cable, from significant degeneration ofperformance of the cable (i.e., an unacceptable degenerative state), ahardware failure within one or both of the bridge-routing modules 386and/or a software failure within one or both of the bridge-routingmodules 386. When a cable failure 446 occurs, the bridge-routing modules386 select one or more of the other cables 448 to function as the activelink.

FIG. 19 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing acable failure within a network fabric by a vehicle network link module.The method begins with the processing module and/or a link managerdetermining whether a cable failure has occurred 450. When a cablefailure is detected, the method continues by determining whether linkaggregation 452 (e.g., a use mode in which multiple ports to achievehigher data rates) is currently in use. If not, the method continues bydetermining whether hot standby 454 (e.g., another use mode in which abackup link is used to convey the same packets as the active link) isactive. If hot standby is not active, the processing module and/or linkmanager activates another port and retransmits any packets that may havebeen lost due to the link failure 456.

If hot standby is active, the method continues by using the replicatedtransmission 458 (i.e., the backup transmission). The method continuesby setting up a new hot standby link for a newly activated link 460.

If link aggregation is active, the method continues by determiningwhether each link has an active hot standby 462. When the hot-standbyport is not enabled, the link manager processing module determineswhether conveyance of a vehicle network packet was corrupted when thevehicle network packet conveyance has degenerated below the threshold.When the conveyance of the vehicle network packet was corrupted, thelink manager processing module determines content type of the vehiclenetwork packet (e.g., mission critical, network data, vehicle operation,and/or infotainment). The link manager processing module then determinesnetwork traffic conditions (e.g., how congested the network is). Thelink manager processing module then determines whether to initiatereconveyance the vehicle network packet based on the content type andnetwork traffic conditions. For example, retransmit the packet orrequest retransmission packet by the other vehicle network fabric linkmodule based on a sliding scale of content type and traffic conditions(e.g., retransmit everything but entertainment under normal trafficconditions, only mission critical packets when network is very busy,etc.). During the retransmission of lost packets of the failed cable,the other link aggregation cable may be in active to allowsynchronization to be reestablished.

If hot standby is active for the link aggregation, the method continuesby using the replicated transmission for the failed cable 466 (i.e., thebackup transmission on the hot standby link). The method continues bysetting up a new hot standby for a newly activated link 468.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram of another example of a linkfailure 470 (e.g., all cables between modules are in failure) within anetwork fabric. The link failure 470 may result from a physical break ofthe cables, from significant degeneration of performance of the cables(i.e., an unacceptable degenerative state), a hardware failure withinone or both of the bridge-routing modules 386 and/or a software failurewithin one or both of the bridge-routing modules 386. When a linkfailure 470 occurs, the bridge-routing modules 386 select an alternatepath in accordance with a pre-determined network topology.

FIG. 21 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a link failure within a network fabric as may be performed bya processing module and/or link manager of a bridge-routing module. Themethod begins by determining whether a link failure has occurred 472. Ifyes, the process continues by accessing a network topology database asmay be instructed by a network manager 474. In this network, since thenetwork fabric is a semi-static architecture, it allows for a variety ofpre-determined configurations to be identified and stored. As such, whena link failure occurs and to avoid loops, a preconfigured networktopology may be identified and readily implemented in a very shortperiod of time (e.g., less than a few tens of milliseconds). The networktopology database will be described in greater detail with reference toFIGS. 22-26.

The method continues by selecting an alternate path between the bridgerouting modules having the link failure 476. The selection of analternative path may be based on a variety of decision points. Forinstance, the network topology database may be organized in a first infirst out manner where the configuration in the first entry of thedatabase is used. Alternatively, the decision may be based on which linkfailed, which bridge-routing modules are involved, network traffic, loadbalancing, etc. As an example and with reference to FIG. 20, alternativepath one may be selected due to one or more of the decision points.

Returning to the discussion of FIG. 21, the method continues bytransmitting the alternative path selection to other modules within thenetwork fabric 478. This may be done by the network manager, theprocessing module of one or more of the bridge-routing modules, or thelink manager of one or more of the bridge-routing modules. The methodcontinues by enabling the selected alternative path 480. The methodcontinues by updating the network topology database 482. For example,the selected network topology is now the active network topology and theprevious topology is flagged as inactive.

FIG. 22 is an example diagram of a network topology database 484 thatincludes a plurality of spanning tree configuration entries. A spanningtree configuration entry includes a mapping of interconnections betweennetwork nodes, switching modules, and bridge-routing modules of thevehicle communication network. Each configuration is predetermined toavoid loops, and it may be further predetermine to balance loading,reduce packet traffic, and/or allow for more concurrent (e.g., linkaggregation, plural virtual LAN with plural spanning treeconfigurations) packet transmissions.

FIGS. 23-26 are examples of network fabric spanning tree configurationsthat may be stored in the network topology database. In each of thefigures, the solid triple lines represent active links between themodules and the light dashed lines represent inactive links between themodules. In each of these configurations, loops are avoided. Note thatthe network fabric may include more or less switch modules 388, networknode modules 390 and/or bridge-routing modules 386 than illustrated inthe figures. Regardless of the number of modules within the networkfabric, the network topologies can be predetermined to avoid loops andmay further be predetermined for load balancing, reducing packettraffic, and/or for allowing more concurrent packet transmission.

FIG. 27 is a diagram of an embodiment of a modified network frame/packet486 that includes a preamble field 488, a start of frame field 490, avehicle network field 492, a destination address field 494, a sourceaddress field 496, a type/length field 498, a payload field 500, acyclic redundancy check (CRC) field 502 (or frame check field), and itmay further include a gap field 504. The preamble 488, start a frame490, destination address 494, source address 496, type/length 498,payload 500, CRC 502, and gap fields 504 may be similarly formatted toone or more Ethernet protocols.

The vehicle network field 492 may include a variety of information toidentify the content type of packet, priority level of the packet,and/or other network related matters. For instance, the vehicle network492 field may include coding to identify a mission-critical type packet506, a network type packet 508, a vehicle operation type packet 510, aninformation/entertainment type packet 512, and/or any other type ofpacket. The vehicle network field 492 may further include coding toidentify sub-type information. For example, the mission-critical typepacket 506 may include multiple levels of mission-critical sub-types.For instance, a first level of mission-critical packets are of the mostimportant, a second level of mission-critical packets are of a nextlevel of importance, etc.

As another example, a network type packet 508 may include sub types ofdevice level packets 514, resource level packets 516, network data levelpackets 518, and/or any other type of network control and/or informationpackets. As a more specific example, the device level packets 514 maypertain to adding an element (e.g., module, component, device, etc.) tothe network, deleting an element from the network, processing a damagedelement of the network, updating an element of the network, etc.

A network node module and/or an associated switch module typicallygenerate the content of the vehicle network field 492. For example, whena network node module has a packet to transmit, it may access one ormore databases to determine its priority level, the type of networkpacket, etc. to generate the coding for the vehicle network field 492.Alternatively, the network node module may have the vehicle networkfield 492 information locally stored for insertion into the packets itproduces. As another alternative, the network node module may generate apacket with the vehicle network field 492 blank (e.g., including nullinformation) and the switching module determines the appropriate codingfor the vehicle network field 492. The network node modules will bedescribed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 41-57 and theswitching module will be described in greater detail with reference toFIGS. 33-40.

In an example of operation, a network node module (which includes aprocessing module and memory) communicates via the unified vehiclecommunication network in accordance with a global vehicle networkcommunication protocol. For instance, the global vehicle networkcommunication protocol (or global vehicle network protocol) prescribesthe formatting of frames (or packets), prescribes frame transmissionprioritization schemes (e.g., locally managed prioritization schemes,globally managed prioritization schemes), prescribes network managementprocessing (e.g., resource management, network data type management,network configuration management, and/or device management); and/orother vehicle network operation parameters.

To communicate via the unified vehicle communication network (e.g., asdiscussed with reference to FIGS. 2-13), the processing module of thenetwork node generates a header section of a frame to include apreamble, a vehicle network field, and routing information. The headersection may further include a frame length field and a start of framefield.

The routing information includes a source address field and/or adestination address field. In one instance, the source and/ordestination field include an Internet protocol (IP) address for thesource and/or destination, respectively. For example, each device (e.g.,as shown in or more of FIGS. 2-13) may have one or more IP addressesallocated to it. In another instance, the source and/or destinationfield include a physical device address of the source and/ordestination, respectively. For example, each device of the vehiclesystem has a physical address assigned to it.

The vehicle network field includes information that identifies a type ofthe frame. For example, the vehicle network filed may include a contenttype of the frame (e.g., a mission-critical data type, a network datatype, a vehicle operation data type, and/or an information/entertainmentdata type) and/or a priority level of the frame (e.g., top priority orsubordinate levels of priority). Note that the processing module maygenerate the vehicle network field by retrieving frame information(e.g., type, priority, etc.) from the memory, which may store one ormore of databases regarding priority level of the frame, type of theframe, coding of the frame.

The vehicle network field may further include one or more levels ofsub-type information. For example, there may be several levels forsafety (e.g., critical, general, etc.). Other examples are discussedabove.

The processing module may alternatively generate the vehicle networkfield to include null information. In this instance, a module of thevehicle network fabric recognizes the null information and determines,on behalf of the device, the appropriate information for the vehiclenetwork field and populates it accordingly.

The processing module continues generating the frame by generating apayload section. The payload section includes data payload and anintegrity check field (e.g., CRC). Once the frame is generated, theprocessing module transmits it, via a vehicle network interface, to theunified vehicle communication network in accordance with a globalvehicle network communication protocol.

FIG. 28 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing apacket in the vehicular communication network by a bridge-routingmodule, a switch module, and/or other module of the network fabric inaccordance with a global vehicle network communication protocol. Anetwork management module of the vehicle communication network, whichincludes a network interface, memory, and a processing module, managesthe global vehicle network communication protocol. For example, managingthe global vehicle network communication protocol includes instituting acontent-based network packet processing protocol and managing thevehicle communication network to support the network packet processingprotocol. The content-based network packet processing protocol includesdetermining and classifying content type of a packet (e.g., missioncritical content, network data content, vehicle operation content,and/or infotainment content), determining a processing requirement ofthe packet, and prioritizing execution of the processing requirementbased on the content type.

As another example, the network management module manages packet routingwithin the vehicle communication network based on a content-basedpriority scheme and a configuration of the network fabric. Further, thenetwork management module selects the configuration of the networkfabric from one of a plurality of predetermined configurations of thenetwork fabric based on vehicle communication network information andmanages the vehicle communication network information.

The method begins by receiving a packet 520 and reading the headerinformation of the packet 522. In particular, reading the vehiclenetwork field to determine the type of vehicle network packet 524. Themethod continues by determining whether the type of packet is a missioncritical packet 526. If yes, the method continues by identifying amission-critical task (e.g., braking, engine control, safety actuation(airbag deployment), transmission control, etc.) 528. The methodcontinues by determining processing requirements for themission-critical task 530, which will be discussed in greater detailwith reference to FIGS. 29-31. The method continues by executing theprocessing requirements for the mission-critical task 532.

If the vehicle network packet type is not mission-critical, the methodcontinues by determining whether the packet type is network related 534.If yes, the method continues by identifying the particular network task536 (e.g., update one or more databases, change network configuration,change prioritization, change mutation protocol, etc.). The methodcontinues by determining processing requirements for the particularnetwork task 538, which we describe in greater detail with reference toFIG. 32. The method continues by executing the processing requirementsfor the network task 540.

If the vehicle network packet type is not network related, the methodcontinues by determining whether the packet type is vehicle operation542. If yes, the method continues by identifying the particular vehicleoperation task 544 (e.g., adjust climates, adjust seat, headlightoperation, engine diagnostics, etc.). The method continues bydetermining processing requirements for the vehicle operation task,which may include forward in the packet, routing the packet, and/orupdating tables and/or databases regarding the packet 546. The methodcontinues by executing the processing requirements for the vehicleoperation task 548.

If the vehicle network packet type is not vehicle operation, the methodcontinues by determining whether the packet is aninformation/entertainment packet 550. If yes, the method continues byidentifying the particular information/entertainment task 552 (e.g.,display audio/video data, store audio/video data, process graphics,etc.). The method continues by determining processing requirements forthe particular information/entertainment task, which may includeforwarding the packet, routing the packet, and/or updating tables and/ordatabases regarding the packet 554. The method continues by executingthe processing requirements for the information/entertainment task 556.

If the vehicle network packet type is not information/entertainment, themethod continues by identifying another task 558. The processingcontinues by determining processing requirements for the other task 560.The method the method continues by executing the processing requirementsfor the other task 562.

FIG. 29 is an example diagram of processing a mission critical packetwithin a vehicle communication network. In this example, a criticalsafety sensor 566 (e.g., collision detection, driver sensor, etc.) iscoupled to the network fabric 564 and provides and input packet to thenetwork fabric 564. A bridge-routing module 386 within the networkfabric 564 receives the input packet and performs the methods of FIGS.28 and 30 to determine that the input packet is a mission-criticalpacket. In addition, the bridge-routing module 386 determines thedestination of the mission-critical packet and routes it thereto.

In this example, the destination of the mission-critical packet is acritical safety processing module 568. Upon receiving themission-critical packet, the critical safety processing module 568performs a function to generate one or more output packets. In thisexample, the critical safety processing module 568 is generatingmultiple output packets, which are provided to the network fabric 564.

The bridge-routing module 386 within the network fabric 564 receives theoutput packets and processes them in accordance with the methods ofFIGS. 28 and 31 to determine their destinations. Based on thisprocessing, the bridge-routing module 386 routes the packets to thecorresponding destinations. The destinations may be a plurality ofactuators such as a brake actuator, an airbag actuator, a transmissionadjust actuator, and/or any other actuator that performs a safetyfunction.

FIG. 30 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing amission critical packet in the vehicular communication network. Themethod begins by receiving a packet 570 and identifying it as an inputmission-critical packet 572. This may be done by interpreting theidentity of the source, the identity of the destination, and/orinterpreting the vehicle network field. For example, if the source is acollision detection sensor, packets that it generates are, by default,determined to be mission-critical.

The method continues by determining whether the received packet is fromthe source of the packet or from another bridge-routing module 574. Ifthe packet is from the source, the method continues by determiningwhether the packet includes the mission critical type identifier in thevehicle network field of the packet 576. If not, the bridge-routingmodule adds the mission-critical type identifier to the packet, whichmay be done by a database lookup process 578.

With the mission-critical type identifier in the packet, the methodcontinues by determining the mission-critical packet prioritization 580.This can be done by accessing a prioritization database based on thesource, destination the type of mission-critical task, or a combinationthereof. The level of prioritization for the mission-critical packet maybe an interrupt level (i.e., interrupt the transmission of the currentpacket for the mission-critical packet), placing the mission-criticalpacket at the front of a first in first out queue, transmitting thepackets via dedicated bandwidth to another bridge-routing module and/orto a switch module, or broadcasting the packet over the network, whichmay be done in an override manner or when the network is available.

The method continues by determining the mission-critical processingmodule destination, or destinations 582. The method continues bydetermining whether one or more of the mission-critical processingmodules are local 584 (i.e., couple to the bridge-routing module or tothe switch module executing this function). If yes, the mission-criticalpackets are sent to the local mission-critical processing module(s) inaccordance with the determined prioritization 586. If themission-critical processing modules are not local, the mission-criticalpackets are sent to the next bridge-routing module or switch module inaccordance with the determine prioritization and known network mapping588.

FIG. 31 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a mission critical packet in the vehicular communicationnetwork. The method begins by receiving a packet 590 and identifying itas an output mission-critical packet 592. This may be done byinterpreting the vehicle network field of the packet, accessing adatabase based on the source and/or destination of the packet, and/orother factors.

The method continues by determining the mission-critical packetprioritization 594. Such prioritization may include interruptingtransmission of a current packet, placing the packet at the top of aningress queue and/or egress queue, using dedicated bandwidth of thevehicle communication network, and/or transmitting the packet vianetwork broadcast that overrides a current transmission or when thenetwork becomes available.

The method continues by determining whether one or more of thedestinations are local 598. For each local destination, thebridge-routing module sends the mission-critical packet to the localdestination per the prioritization 600. For each non-local destination,the bridge-routing module sends the mission-critical packet to the nextbridge-routing module per the prioritization and the network mapping,which may be a current version of the network or a prioritizationmapping of the network 602. For instance, the network mapping may haveone network topology configuration and the prioritization mapping mayhave a different network topology that optimizes communication betweenmission-critical devices.

FIG. 32 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forprocessing a packet in the vehicular communication network. The methodbegins by receiving a packet 604 and interpreting it to determine thatit is a network data type packet 606. For instance, the bridge-routingmodule (or switch module) interprets the vehicle network field of thepacket to identify the nature of the packet. The method continues bydetermining whether the network task has a local component 608. In otherwords, does the packet contain a task to be performed by the currentbridge-routing module (or switch module). If not, the bridge-routingmodule forwards packet to the next bridge-routing module or to a switchmodule 610.

If the network task has a local component, the method continues bydetermining whether the network task includes a memory access request612. If yes, the method continues by determining whether the networktask is a read request or a write request 614. For a write request, themethod continues by storing network data in a database or table 616. Forexample, the network packet may include network data for updating anetwork topology database, a forwarding database, a routing table, afiltering table, a mission-critical database, etc. Having stored thedata, the method continues by sending a write acknowledgment 618.

If the network task is a read network data request, the method continuesby accessing a database or table to retrieve the requested network data620. The method continues by packetizing the retrieved network data 622and forwarding the packet per the request 624. The method continues bydetermining whether the network task further includes a networkconfiguration adjustment 626. If not, the method is finished for thispacket 628.

If the network task does not include a memory access request, the methodcontinues by determining a network configuration adjustment 630. Thenetwork configuration adjustment may be to add a device to the network,delete a device from the network, process a damaged device, update adevice, respond to a link failure, respond to degeneration of a link, toestablish or change a communication protocol between bridge-routingmodules, to adjust frequency allocation, to adjust bandwidth allocation,to change network configuration, change resource allocation, adjusttraffic routing, adjust load-balancing, activate redundant link or pathupon any failures, etc. The method continues by performing the networkconfiguration adjustment 632 and sending an acknowledgement of itscompletion 634.

FIG. 33 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a switch modulethat includes a redundancy/backup module 636, a network buffer 638, aswitching circuit 640, a plurality of port buffers 642, a plurality ofports 644, a processing module 646, and memory. The processing module648 may be configured to implement a local network management function650, a layer 2 switching function, a layer 3 switching function, a layer4 switching function, and/or a multilayer switching function. The memory648 stores one or more of a switching database 653, a network protocoldatabase 654, an information/entertainment database 656, a vehicleoperations database 658, a mission-critical database 660, and apredetermined network topology database 662.

Each of the ports 644 is coupled to a network node module and theredundancy/backup module 636 is coupled to a bridge-routing module. Theswitch module 388 may include more than one redundancy/backup module 636for connectivity to more than one bridge-routing modules and/or toanother switch module.

In an example of operation, one of the ports 644 receives a packetincluding a particular type of content, from its corresponding networknode module. The packet is buffered via the corresponding port buffer642 and is interpreted, e.g. to determine the packet content type, bythe local network manager function 650 as will be discussed in greaterdetail with reference to figure is 35. The processing module 646 evokesone of the switching functions (e.g., layer 2, layer 3, layer 4, ormulti-layer) to control the switching and processing of the packet. Theselection of the particular switching function is dependent on thecurrent network topology and/or the current network protocol. Forinstance, if packets are routed using MAC addresses, the processingmodule 646 may implement a layer 2 switching function.

The network buffer 638 may include one or more queues to temporarilystore the packet. The processing module 646 controls the organizationand management of the queues based on data contained in one or more ofthe databases stored in memory 648. The queues will be described ingreater detail with reference to FIGS. 36-40. In accordance with theorganization and management of the queues, packets are outputted to beredundancy/backup module 636 for transmission to a bridge-routing moduleor to another switch module. The redundancy/backup module 636 functionssimilarly to the redundancy/backup module of a bridge-routing module.

In another example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 636receives a packet from a bridge-routing module or another switch module.Under the control of the processing module 646, the packet is placed inone of the network buffer's queues. When the packet reaches the top ofits queue, it is provided to one of the port buffers 642 via theswitching circuit 388 and subsequently provided to the correspondingport for transmission to a network node module.

FIG. 34 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a switchmodule 388 that includes a redundancy/backup module 636, a first toppriority packet module 664, a network buffer 638, a switching circuit640, a plurality of port buffers 642, a second top priority packetmodule 666, a plurality of ports 644, a processing module 646, andmemory 648. The processing module 646 may be configured to implement alocal network management function 650, a layer 2 switching function, alayer 3 switching function, a layer 4 switching function, and/or amultilayer switching function. The memory 648 stores one or more of aswitching database 652, a network protocol database 654, aninformation/entertainment database 656, a vehicle operations database658, a mission-critical database 660, and a predetermined networktopology database 662.

Each of the ports 644 is coupled to a network node module and theredundancy/backup module 636 is coupled to a bridge-routing module. Theswitch module 388 may include more than one redundancy/backup module 636for connectivity to more than one bridge-routing module and/or toanother switch module.

In an example of operation, when the redundancy/backup module 636receives a packet, the top priority packet module 664 interprets thepacket content type to determine whether it is a top priority packet.Such an interpretation may be based on the content of the vehiclenetwork field of the packet, the identity of the source, etc. If thepacket is a top priority packet, it is routed to the other top prioritypacket module 666, which provides the top priority packet to theappropriate port for transmission to the corresponding network nodemodule.

Similarly, when a port 644 provides a packet to the second top prioritypacket module 666, it interprets the packet, including the packetcontent type, to determine whether it is a top priority packet. If so,it forwards the packet to the other top priority packet module 664,which provides it to the redundancy/backup module 636 for immediate(e.g., interrupt) or near-immediate transmission (e.g., next availabletransmission slot) into the network fabric. If a packet is not a toppriority packet, the switch module 388 processes it as previouslydiscussed with reference to FIG. 33.

FIG. 35 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processing aprioritized packet in the vehicular communication network (i.e., a localnetwork manager function) that may be executed by a network node module,a switching module, and/or a bridge-routing module. The method begins bydetermining packet prioritization 668 of a packet by interpreting thevehicle network field of the packet 670. The method continues bydetermining whether the packet is a top priority packet 672 (e.g.,to/from a critical safety device, etc.). If yes, the method continues byusing the top priority by-pass mechanism within the switch module and/orbridge-routing module to transmit the top priority packet to a switchmodule, a bridge-routing module, or a network node module 674.

The top priority by-pass mechanism includes determining whether theswitch or bridge-routing module is currently transmitted another packetor whether the network fabric is currently transmitted a packet. If not,the top priority is transmitted. If there is a packet currently beingtransmitted 676, the method continues by determining whether the currentpacket is of a lower priority 678. If yes (i.e., the top priority packetis of a higher priority), the transmission of the current packet isinterrupted for transmission of the top priority packet 680. If not(i.e., the current packet is of equal or higher priority), the methodcontinues by waiting until the current packet has been transmitted 682and then transmitting the top priority packet 684.

If the packet is not a top priority packet, the method continues by timestamping the packet, which may be done by the network node module, aswitch module, and/or a bridge-module 686. The method continues bydetermining where in a queue (e.g., a single ingress or egress queue orone of a plurality ingress or egress queues) to place the packet 688.The method continues by adding the packet to the queue based on itsprioritization and time stamp 690.

The method continues by determining whether the time-to-live (TTL)(e.g., a time duration from the time stamp) for the packet has expired692. If yes, the packet is discarded 694. If not, the method continuesby determining whether the packet is to be retrieved from the queue 696.If the packet is to be retrieved from the queue (e.g., it is in a firstposition of a first-in-first-out queue), it is retrieved and transmitted(e.g., within the switch or bridge-routing module or to another switchor bridge-routing module) 698.

If the packet is not yet being retrieved, the method continues bydetermining whether to update the TTL priority of the packet (e.g., theexpiration time of the packet is getting close) 700. If not, the methodrepeats by determining if the TTL has expired. If the TTL priority is tobe updated, it is updated 702 (e.g., given a higher priority) and themethod continues as shown.

FIG. 36 is an example diagram of a packet 704 and packet queues within avehicle communication network. The packet 704 includes the preamble 706,start of frame 708, timestamp 710, packet type 712, and of the remainderof the packet 714. Note that the timestamp 710 and packet type 712 arecontained within the vehicle network field of the packet 704. The queuesmay be separate based on the packet type, or other factor. For example,the queues may include a mission-critical queue 716, a network dataqueue 718, and information/entertainment queue 720, and a vehicleoperation queue 714.

As a packet 704 is received, its type is determined, which thendetermines the queue it will be placed in. Having identified the queue,the packet's position within the queue is determined based on itsprioritization. The prioritization of a packet 704 may be based on thesource of the packet, the destination of the packet, the timestamp 710,the nature of the packet, etc. For example, if the packet is amission-critical packet, it will be placed within the mission criticalqueue 716. Within the mission-critical queue 716, the packetprioritization level will be compared with the mission-critical packetsalready in the mission-critical queue 716. Based on this comparison, thenew mission-critical packet will be placed in the queue above lowerpriority packets and below higher parity packets.

When a packet 704 is to be transmitted to another location within themodule or to the network fabric, the packet 704 may be selected from anyone of the queues based on a prioritization scheme. The prioritizationscheme takes into account the type of packet, the source of the packet,the destination of the packet, its timestamp 710, etc. For example,mission-critical packets may take priority over any other type of packet704. Thus, other packets will not be transmitted unless themission-critical queue 716 is empty. As another example, the timestamp710 of the packet 704 may drive the prioritization scheme (other thanfor top priority packets) such that any type of packet may have priorityfor transmission. As yet another example, each type of packet 704 may beallocated a certain amount of bandwidth within the network fabric suchthat each type of packet will be transmitted within the network fabricbased on individual priority schemes for the packet type. In this latterscheme, bandwidth may be dynamically allocated based on queue size,packet type, etc.

FIGS. 37-40 are example diagrams of packet queue processing within avehicle communication network. FIG. 37 illustrates a single packet queuethat may be contained within a switch module and/or a bridge-routingmodule. The packet queue includes a queue address and a packet fieldidentifier 726. The queue address indicates the packets prioritizationwithin the queue. For example, for a first in first out queue, thepacket at address 001 is of the highest priority (e.g., the next packetto be transmitted) and the packet at the bottom of the queue has thelowest priority.

FIG. 38 illustrates the packet queue of FIG. 37 at time tx+1. At thistime, the first two packets have been transmitted (e.g., MC packets #1and 2). In the time frame from tx to tx+1, no new packets were added tothe queue.

FIG. 39 illustrates the packet queue at time tx+2. At this time, thenext first packet (e.g., ND packet #1) has been transmitted and a newpacket (e.g., IT packet #y) has been added to the bottom of the queue.In addition, the prioritization of the packet at queue address x−2(e.g., ND packet #x) is reprioritized within the queue to queue address#004.

FIG. 40 illustrates the packet queue at time tx+3. At this time, thenext first packet (e.g., MC packet #x) has been transmitted and a newpacket (e.g., MC packet #y) has been added to the middle of the queuebased on its prioritization with respect to the other packets in thequeue.

FIG. 41 is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a network nodemodule 390 that includes a plurality of ports 726, a plurality of devicebuffers 728, a switching circuit 730, a network buffer 732, a processingmodule 734, and memory 736. The processing module 734 implements a localmanagement function 738 (which includes a locally managed prioritizationscheme). The memory 736 includes one or more databases for datainput/output 740, network protocol 742, information-entertainment 744,vehicle operations 746, and/or mission-critical data 748.

Each of the ports 726 is coupled to a vehicle device 750 or vehiclemodule 752 and a corresponding device buffer 728. A vehicle device 750may be any one of the modules or components illustrated in FIGS. 6-11.For example, a vehicle device 750 may be a sensor, and actuator,electronic control unit, the user input, a user output, a communicationdevice, etc. A vehicle module 752 includes one or more vehicle devices750.

In an example of operation, a vehicle device 750 or vehicle module 752generates an outgoing device packet (or frame) for transmission via thenetwork fabric. In this instance, the vehicle device 750 provides thepacket via a port 726 to its corresponding device buffer 728. The buffer728 may include an egress queue for temporarily storing the outgoingdevice packets and an ingress queue for temporarily storing incomingnetwork packets. The local network management function 738 manages theinputting and outputting of packets in the buffer (e.g., a queue) basedon a prioritization scheme as previously discussed (i.e., performs thelocal portion of the global vehicle network communication protocol). Inparticular, the processing module interprets the outgoing device packetsand/or the incoming network packets to determine types of packets andthen determines the locally managed prioritization scheme based on thetypes of packets (e.g., mission critical packets, network protocolpackets, vehicle operation packets, and/or information-entertainmentpackets).

For example, the processing module may interpret a packet byinterpreting a vehicle network field of the packet to identify the typeof packet. As another example, the processing module may interpret apacket by identifying a source of the outgoing device packets, and,based on the source, determine the type of packet. As yet anotherexample, the processing module may interpret a packet by identifying adestination of the outgoing device packet and, based on the destination,determine the type of packet. As a further example, the processingmodule may interpret a packet by identifying a source of the incomingnetwork packet and, based on the source, determine the type of packet.As a still further example, the processing module may interpret a packetby identifying a destination of the incoming network packet and, basedon the destination, determine the type of the packet.

The processing module may further determine the locally managedprioritization scheme by accessing one or more databases based on thetypes of packets. The databases include a data input/output database, anetwork protocol database, an information-entertainment database, avehicle operations database, and/or a mission critical database.

Based on the prioritization scheme, the local network managementfunction 738 enables the switching circuit 730 to transfer an outgoingdevice packet from one of the plurality of device buffers 728 to thenetwork buffer 732 by selectively coupling the device buffer to thenetwork buffer. The network buffer 732 may also include an ingress queueand an egress queue. In this example, the outgoing packet would beplaced in the egress queue. The local network management function 738manages the queues of the network buffer 732 based on the prioritizationscheme. As such, the packet generated by the vehicle device 750 in thisexample will be outputted to the network fabric in accordance with theprioritization scheme.

For an incoming packet, the network buffer 732 temporarily stores it inan ingress queue under the control of the local network managementfunction. When the incoming packet reaches the top of the ingress queueof the network buffer 732, the local network management function 738enables the switching circuit 730 to provide it to the correspondingdevice buffer 728 of the destination vehicle device 750. Thecorresponding buffer 728 stores it in its egress queue and subsequentlyprovides it to the vehicle device 750 in accordance with theprioritization scheme.

In another example of operation, a vehicle device 750 may utilize aparticular communication protocol (e.g., CAN, Flex Ray, etc.), which thelocal network manager function 738 translates into the network protocol.For example, the local network manager function may convert the packetof the vehicle device protocol into a network protocol packet.Alternatively, the local network management function 738 may encapsulatethe packet of the vehicle device 750 into a global vehicle networkprotocol packet.

FIG. 42 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes a plurality of ports 726, a device (orfirst) top priority packet module 754, a plurality of buffers 728, aswitching circuit 730, a processing module 734, a network buffer 732, anetwork (or second) priority packet module 756, and memory 736. Theprocessing module 734 implements a local network manager function 738and the memory 736 includes one or more of a data input output database740, a network protocol database 742, and information-entertainmentdatabase 744, a vehicle operations database 746, and or a missioncritical database 748.

In an example of operation, a vehicle device 750 outputs a packet to itscorresponding port 726, which is received by the first top prioritypacket module 754. The first top priority packet module interprets thepacket to determine whether it is a top priority packet (e.g., is of theutmost importance such as a safety related mission critical function).If the packet is a top primary packet, the first top priority packetmodule 754 provides the packet to the second top priority packet module756. The second top priority packet module 756 outputs the top prioritypacket to the network fabric in an immediate fashion (i.e., interrupt acurrent transmission on the network fabric or by the network node module390) or in a near-intermediate fashion (i.e., as soon as the currentpacket is transmitted, the top priority packet is transmitted onto thenetwork fabric). If the packet is not a top priority packet, the firsttop priority packet module 754 provides the packet to the correspondingbuffer 728 and it is process as previously discussed with reference toFIG. 41.

For an incoming packet, the second top priority packet module 756interprets the packet to determine whether it is a top priority packet.If so, the second top priority packet module 756 provide the packet tothe first top priority packet module 754, which may be done in animmediate fashion or a near immediate fashion within the network nodemodule 390. The first is top priority packet module 754 provides the toppriority packet to the appropriate vehicle device 750. If the incomingpacket is not a top priority packet, the second top priority module 756provides the packet to the network buffer 732 and the packet is processas previously discussed with reference to FIG. 41.

For both incoming and outgoing top priority packets, the local networkmanager function 738 monitors the activity of the top priority packetmodules 754-756 and adjusts the queues within the buffers accordinglysuch that packets are not lost. For example, if a packet is beingoutputted via the network buffer 732 when an incoming top prioritypacket is received, the local network manager function 738 records theinterruption of the outputting of the packet and facilitatesretransmission of the packet after the incoming top priority packet hasbeen received and provided to the appropriate vehicle device 750.

FIG. 43 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes a vehicle device (e.g., a sensor 758), ananalog to digital converter (ADC) 760, a network interface 762, and aport 764. The sensor 758 may be any one of the sensors illustrated inFIGS. 6-11 and/or another type of vehicle application sensor. Note thatif the sensor 758 is a digital device, the analog to digital converter760 may be omitted.

The network interface 762 facilitates communication regarding a vehiclefunction of the vehicle device between the vehicle device and a vehiclenetwork fabric in accordance with a global vehicle network communicationprotocol and includes circuitry for converting digital sensed data intonetwork protocol packets. For example, if the sensor 758 is athermometer, it provides an analog temperature reading to the ADC 760.The ADC 760 converts the analog temperature reading into a digitalvalue. The network interface 762 generates a packet in accordance withthe network protocol, placing the digital value of the temperature inthe payload field of the packet.

FIG. 44 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes a vehicle device (e.g., an actuator 766),a digital to analog converter (DAC) 768, a network interface 762, and aport 764. The actuator 766 may be any one of the actuators illustratedin FIGS. 6-11 and/or another type of vehicle application actuator. Notethat if the actuator 766 is a digital device, the digital to analogconverter 768 may be omitted.

The network interface 762 provides circuitry for extracting digital datafrom a network protocol packet. For example, if the network interface762 receives a packet regarding rolling up a window, it extracts thedigital data from the payload field of the packet. The DAC 768 convertsthe digital data into an analog control signal, which it provides to theactuator 766. In this example the actuator 766 may be a window motoractuator.

FIG. 45 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes a vehicle device (e.g., an electroniccontrol unit (ECU) 770), a network interface 762, and a port 764. TheECU 770 maybe anyone of the ECUs illustrated in FIGS. 6-11 and/or anyother type of vehicle application electronic control unit. The networkinterface 762 functions to packet size outbound data in accordance withthe network protocol and to be packetized inbound data in accordancewith the network protocol.

The network node modules 390 of FIGS. 43-45 may be implemented using oneor more integrated circuits. For example, the network interface 762, thecircuitry to support the physical port, and an analog to digitalconverter may be on one integrated circuit and the sensor 758 may be ona separate integrated circuit or it may be a stand alone component. Asanother example, the network interface 762, the circuitry to support thephysical port, and a digital to analog converter 768 may be on oneintegrated circuit and an actuator 766 may be on a separate integratedcircuit or it may be a standalone component. As yet another example, thenetwork interface 762 and the circuitry to support the physical port maybe on one integrated circuit and an electronic control unit 770 may beon a separate integrated circuit. As a further example, the networkinterface 762, the circuitry to support the physical port, and theelectronic control unit 770 maybe on a single integrated circuit.

While the network node modules of FIGS. 43-45 illustrate specificvehicle devices, the vehicle device in each example may be any one of amission critical vehicle operation device, a non-mission criticalvehicle operation device, a mission critical safety device, anon-mission critical safety device, a mission critical electronicdriving device, a non-mission critical electronic driving device, anelectronic control unit, and an entertainment device.

FIG. 46 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes a plurality of sensors 758, a plurality ofactuators 766, a plurality of analog to digital converters 760, aplurality of digital to analog converters 768, an assembly network nodemodule (which includes a plurality of network interfaces 762 and aswitching circuit module 772), and a port 774. The switching circuitmodule 772 includes a switching circuit 776, a processing module 778,one or more queues 780, and memory 782. The processing module 778implements a local management function. The memory 782 includes one ormore databases for data input/output, network protocol,information-entertainment, vehicle operations, and/or mission-criticaldata. The one or more queues 780 may include an ingress queue and/or anegress queue for temporarily storing packets to/from the networkinterfaces and an ingress queue and/or an egress queue for storingpackets to/from the switch module 772 (network node module orbridge-routing module). As another example, the switching module 772includes a queue 780 for each of the vehicle devices of the network nodemodule 390 and a network queue 780 coupled to the port 774. As a furtherexample, the switching module 772 may include a single queue for packetsto/from the network interfaces 762 and a single queue 780 coupled to theport 774.

In an example of operation, a sensor 758 generates data, which isconverted into a packet by the network interface 762 as previouslydiscussed. The network interface 762 provides the packet to one of thequeues 780 of the switching circuit module 772. The local networkmanagement function manages the inputting of packets in the queue basedon a prioritization scheme as previously discussed. For example, if thesensor 758 is a mission critical sensor, packets it generates may begiven a higher priority than packets of non-mission critical sensors.

Based on the prioritization scheme, the local network managementfunction enables the switching circuit 776 to transfer an outgoingpacket from the queue to the network queue (e.g., the network egressqueue). The local network management function manages the queues of thenetwork buffer based on the prioritization scheme. As such, the packetgenerated by the sensor 758 in this example will be outputted to theswitch module 772, the network node module 390, or the bridge-routingmodule in accordance with the prioritization scheme.

For an incoming packet, the network queue (e.g., an ingress queue)temporarily stores it under the control of the local network managementfunction. When the incoming packet reaches the top of the networkingress queue, the local network manager function enables the switchingcircuit 776 to provide it to the queue of the destination actuator. Theactuators 766 queue stores the packet until it is in a priority positionfor transmission to the DAC 768 and actuator 766.

Note that the network node module 390 may include more or less sensorsand/or actuators than shown. Further note that the network node module390 may be implemented as one or more integrated circuits. For example,the circuitry of the port, the switching circuit module 776, the networkinterfaces 762, the ADCs 760, and the DACs 768 may be implemented on oneIC, while the sensors 758 and actuators 766 may be implemented on one ormore separate ICs or as stand alone components. As another example, thecircuitry of the port, the network interfaces 762, the ADCs 760, and theDACs 768 may be implemented on one IC, the switching circuit module 772one a separate IC, and the sensors 758 and actuators 766 may beimplemented on one or more other ICs or as stand alone components.

FIG. 47 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 390 that includes the switching circuit module 772, aplurality of network interfaces 762 and a plurality of electroniccontrol units (ECU) 770. The switching circuit module functions aspreviously discussed. Similarly, the network interfaces 762 and the ECUsfunction as previously discussed.

FIG. 48 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 784 that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) forthe left front, right front, left rear, and/or right rear of a vehiclecommunication network. The network node module 784 includes theswitching circuit module 786, a plurality of network interfaces (N/WI/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs 790, one or morecameras 794, a plurality of sensors 796-802, and a plurality ofactuators 804-810.

The plurality of sensors 796-802 may include environmental sensors 796,infrared sensors 798, RF sensors 800, light sensors 802, and/or anyother sensor for detecting driving conditions, road conditions,proximity of other vehicles and/or obstacles. For example, anenvironmental sensor 796 may be used to sense weather conditions, roadconditions (e.g., wetness, icy conditions, snow, etc.), or otherenvironmental conditions that may affect driving. As another example,the infrared 798 and/or radio frequency sensors 800 may be used todetect proximity of other vehicles, obstacles, barriers, and/or otherphysical objects that may affect driving conditions. As such, theinfrared 798 and/or radio frequency sensors 800 may be used as alocalized radar system for the vehicle. As yet a further example, thelight sensor 802 may be used to detect ambient light conditions forautomatic enablement of headlamps and/or to detect headlamps of oncomingvehicles to automatically adjust high beam to low beam settings.

The plurality of actuators 804-810 may include headlamp actuators804-806, fog lamp actuators 808, turn signal actuators 810, and/or anyother actuator that may be employed in the front left, front right, rearleft, or rear right portions of a vehicle. For example, a firstheadlights actuator 804 may be used to enable the headlights at low beamand a second headlights actuator 806 may be used to enable theheadlights at high beam. As another example, the fog lamp actuator 808could be used to enable fog lamps. As yet another example, the turnsignal actuator 810 may be used to actuate a turn signal lamp.

The camera, or cameras, 794 may be used to obtain real-time digitalimages of the surrounding environments of the vehicle, images ofoperation within the vehicle, and/or other images that may assist in theperformance of the vehicle and/or in driving the vehicle. For example,the cameras 794 may capture images that are displayed on a headsetthat's display to assist in parking, backing up, etc. As yet anotherexample, the camera 794 may be used to capture images of objects in aproximity to the vehicle that is subsequently processed for automaticcollision avoidance applications.

The network node module 784 may be implemented as one or more integratedcircuits, may include more or less components than shown, and/or may beimplemented as one or more network node modules. For example, thenetwork node module 784 may be implemented using one integrated circuitto support the circuitry of the port 812, the switching circuit module786, and the network interfaces 788, the digital to analog converters790, and the analog digital converters 792. The other components areimplemented on a common integrated circuit, separate integratedcircuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 49 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for thecenter front and/or center rear of a vehicle communication network 814.The network node module 814 includes the switching circuit module 786, aplurality of network interfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792,a plurality of DACs, one or more cameras 794, a plurality of sensors796-802, and may further include one or more actuators (none shown).

The plurality of sensors 796-802 may include environmental sensors 796,infrared sensors 798, RF sensors 800, light sensors 802, and/or anyother sensor for detecting driving conditions, road conditions,proximity of other vehicles and/or obstacles. The plurality of actuatorsmay include headlamp actuators, fog lamp actuators, turn signalactuators, and/or any other actuator that may be employed in the frontleft, front right, rear left, or rear right portions of a vehicle. Thecamera, or cameras 794, may be used to obtain real-time digital imagesof the surrounding environments of the vehicle, images of operationwithin the vehicle, and/or other images that may assist in theperformance of the vehicle and/or in driving the vehicle.

The sensors 796-802 of the center front and or center rear assembly 814may work in concert with the sensors 796-802 and or actuators of theleft front, right front, left rear and right rear assemblies of FIG. 48to provide a three-dimensional and 360° perspective of the vehiclesenvironment. With such data, the safety and overall performance of thevehicle may be enhanced.

The center front and/or center rear network node module 814 may beimplemented as one or more integrated circuits, may include more or lesscomponents than shown, and/or may be implemented as one or more networknode modules. For example, the network node module 814 may beimplemented using one integrated circuit to support the circuitry of theport 812, the switching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces788, the digital to analog converters, and the analog digital converters792. The other components are implemented on a common integratedcircuit, separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 50 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 816 that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) forthe left front tire, right front tire, left rear tire, and/or right reartire of a vehicle communication network. Each network node module 816includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality of networkinterfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs790, one or more cameras (not shown), a plurality of sensors 818-826,and a plurality of actuators 828-834.

The plurality of sensors 828-834 may include a road sensor 818, aplurality of brake sensors 820-824, a tire pressure sensor 826, and/orany sensor related to the tire and the performance and/or safety of thevehicle. For example, the brake sensors 820-824 may sense brake padwear, temperatures, antilock brake performance, etc. As another example,the road sensor 818 may sense texture of the road, slickness of theroad, and/or any other characteristic of the road that may affectdriving conditions. As yet another example, the tire pressure sensor 826senses the air pressure of the tire.

The plurality of actuators 828-834 may include a plurality of brakingactuators 828-832, and/or any actuator 834 related to the tire and theperformance and/or safety of the vehicle. For example, the brakeactuators 828-832 may perform antilock braking, application ofelectronic brake force, etc.

Each of the tire network node modules 816 may be implemented as one ormore integrated circuits, may include more or less components thanshown, and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules.For example, the network node module may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 51 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for thesteering wheel of a vehicle communication network. The network nodemodule 836 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality ofnetwork interfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a pluralityof DACs 790, a plurality of sensors 842-844, a plurality of user inputs846-854, and a plurality of actuators 838-840.

The user inputs 846-854 used for radio control, cruise control wipercontrol turn signal control, and/or other vehicle system controls. Forexample, a user input may be a switch to turn on or off the radio,adjust the station of the radio, and another user input may be used toincrease or decrease the volume of the radio. As an alternativeembodiment, a single user input they be used to turn on or off theradio, adjusted station, and adjust its volume settings.

The plurality of sensors 842-844 may include driver sensors 842,acoustic sensors 844, temperature sensors, and/or any other sensors thatsense in-cabin conditions that may affect the vehicle's performanceand/or the driver's ability to drive the vehicle. For example, one ofmore sensors may be used to sense the driver's attentiveness to driving.As a more specific example, one of more sensors can be used to monitorthe driver's eye position to determine whether the driver is primarilyfocused on the road or is distracted. As another example, the driversensors may be used to sense the driver's gestures, which may beprocessed into a particular command. As a more specific example, thedriver may wave his/her hand to indicate increase or decrease the valueof the radio. As yet another example, the acoustic sensors may be usedto sense ambient noise, which may be used in a noise canceling scheme.

A plurality of actuators 838-840 may be used for airbag deployment,driver stimulus, and/or any other actuator that may be used to enhanceperformance of the vehicle and or the driver's ability to drive thevehicle. For example, if the data produced by the driver sensorsindicate that the driver is not paying attention, a driver or stimulatorwithin the steering wheel may be actuated to alert the driver to his/herinattentiveness.

The steering wheel network node module 836 may be implemented as one ormore integrated circuits, may include more or less components thanshown, and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules.For example, the network node module may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 52 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module 856 that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) forthe dashboard of a vehicle communication network. The network nodemodule 856 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality ofnetwork interfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a pluralityof DACs 790, a plurality of sensors 858-860, a plurality of user inputs,a plurality of user outputs, and may further include one or moreactuators (none shown).

The user inputs are used for radio control, environment control (e.g.,air conditioning, heater, fan speed, etc.), GPS control, and/or othervehicle system controls. For example, a user input may used to changethe temperature and or fan speed within the vehicle.

The user outputs are used to inform the driver of various vehicleconditions. For example, the user outputs may include one or moredisplays, one or more gauges, a GPS display, a heads-up display, audiblealarms, visual alarms, etc. As a more specific example, one gauge may beused for fuel level, a second gauge for battery level, a third gauge forRPMs, etc.

The plurality of sensors 858-860 may include occupant sensors 858,acoustic sensors 860, temperature sensors, and/or any other sensors thatsense in-cabin conditions that may affect the vehicle's performanceand/or the occupant's comfort and/or safety within the vehicle. Forexample, the acoustic sensors 860 may be used to sense ambient noise,which may be used in a noise canceling scheme. As another example, theaccident sensors may detect the presence of other occupants in thevehicle, which may be used for air bag enablement/disablement, audioperformance optimization (e.g., noise cancellation, surround sound,etc.), climate optimization, etc.

A plurality of actuators may be used for airbag deployment and/or anyother actuator that may be used to enhance performance of the vehicleand or the occupants' comfort and/or safety within the vehicle.

The dashboard network node module 856 may be implemented as one or moreintegrated circuits, may include more or less components than shown,and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules. Forexample, the network node module 856 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 53 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for afront seat of a vehicle communication network. The network node module862 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality of networkinterfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs790, a plurality of sensors, and a plurality of actuators.

The plurality of sensors may be used to sense occupants' movement,position, posture etc. The plurality of actuators may be used to adjustthe seat position, heating the seat, cooling the seat, providing amassage function, etc. For example, the sensors may provide informationto a seat electronic control unit the other network fabric, where theseat electronic control unit interprets the data to determine anoccupant's movement posture, position etc. In this instance, the seatelectronic control unit generates control signals that are transmittedvia the network fabric to the seat network note module 862, which theactuators receive and adjust the seats position accordingly.

The seat network node module 862 may be implemented as one or moreintegrated circuits, may include more or less components than shown,and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules. Forexample, the network node module 862 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 54 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for adoor of a vehicle communication network. Each of the network nodemodules 864 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality ofnetwork interfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a pluralityof DACs 790, a plurality of sensors 858-860 and 866-868, a plurality ofuser inputs, one or more cameras 876, one or more user outputs, and aplurality of actuators 872-874.

The user inputs may include window control (e.g., up, down, lock, etc.),mirror control (for the driver door), seat control, etc. The useroutputs may include one or more audio outputs (e.g., speaker or speakerdriver), alarms, etc.

The plurality of sensors 858-860 and 866-868 may include window sensors866 for sensing motion, interfering objects (e.g., hand, arm, etc.)and/or other window sensory functions. The sensors may also includemirror sensors 868, activate sensors, acoustic sensors 860, and or anyother sensors that may be implemented in the door that enhanceperformance of the vehicle, occupants and/or driver comfort, and/orsafety of the vehicle.

The plurality of actuators 872-874 may include window actuators 872,minor actuators 874, and/or any other actuator that may enhance theperformance of the vehicle, enhance occupant and/or driver comfort,and/or enhanced safety of the vehicle. In addition, the actuators mayinclude airbag actuators for side airbags and/or other safety relatedactuators.

The camera 876 may be used to record in cabin video of the driver,occupants, etc. For example, the video may be used to detect driverdistractions, which may be interpreted by an electronic control unit togenerate a corresponding response to minimize the driver's distraction.

The door network node module 864 may be implemented as one or moreintegrated circuits, may include more or less components than shown,and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules. Forexample, the network node module 864 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 55 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for arear seat of a vehicle communication network. The network node module878 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality of networkinterfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs790, a plurality of sensors, one or more rear seat entertainment input880, one or more rear seat entertainment outputs 882, and a plurality ofactuators.

The plurality of sensors may be used to sense occupants' movement,position, posture etc. The plurality of actuators may be used to adjustthe seat position, heating the seat, cooling the seat, providing amassage function, etc. For example, the sensors may provide informationto a seat electronic control unit the other network fabric, where theseat electronic control unit interprets the data to determine anoccupant's movement posture, position etc. In this instance, the seatelectronic control unit generates control signals that are transmittedvia the network fabric to the seat network note module 878, which theactuators receive and adjust the seats position accordingly.

The rear seat entertainment inputs 880 and outputs 882 relate to a rearseat entertainment unit (e.g., DVD player, CD player, videogame console,etc.). The rear seat entertainment inputs 880 may relate to sourceselection (e.g., DVD, CD, video game, etc.), channel selection, volumecontrol, video game controller, etc. The rear seat entertainment outputs882 may be a display, headphone jack, speakers, a 3-D display, etc. Notethat if the rear seat entertainment inputs 880 and/or outputs 882 aredigital devices, the corresponding ADC 792 or DAC 790 may be omitted.

The rear seat network node module 878 may be implemented as one or moreintegrated circuits, may include more or less components than shown,and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules. Forexample, the network node module 878 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 56 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for anengine of a vehicle communication network. The network node module 884includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality of networkinterfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs790, a plurality of sensors 886-892, a plurality of actuators 894-900,and/or a plurality of electronic control units (ECU) 902-908.

The plurality of electronic control units 902-908 includes one or moreengine control units 902, one or more by-wire applications 904 (e.g.,drive by wire, steer by wire, brake by wire, etc.), safety relatedfunctions 906, and/or diagnostic functions 908. For each type ofelectronic control unit 902-908, the network node module 884 may includeone or more sensors and/or one or more actuators. For example, if thenetwork node module 884 includes an engine electronic control unit 902,the network node module 884 may also include one or more engineactuators 894 and/or one or more engine sensors 886. As another example,if the network node module 884 includes a by-wire electronic controlunit 904, the network node module 884 may also include one or moreby-wire actuators 896 and/or one or more by-wire sensors 888. As yetanother example, if the network node module 884 includes one or moresafety electronic control units 906, the network node module 884 mayalso include one or more safety actuators 989 and/or one or more safetysensors 890. As a further example, if the network node module 884includes one or more diagnostic electronic control units 908, thenetwork node module 884 may also include one or more diagnosticactuators 900 and/or one or more diagnostic sensors 892.

The engine network node module 884 may be implemented as one or moreintegrated circuits, may include more or less components than shown,and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules. Forexample, the network node module 884 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

FIG. 57 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of a networknode module that may be used as an assembly (or portion thereof) for atransmission of a vehicle communication network. The network node module910 includes the switching circuit module 786, a plurality of networkinterfaces (N/W I/F) 788, a plurality of ADCs 792, a plurality of DACs790, a plurality of sensors 888-892 and 912, a plurality of actuators896-900 and 914, and/or a plurality of electronic control units (ECU)904-908 and 916.

The plurality of electronic control units 904-908 and 916 includes oneor more transmission control units 916, one or more by-wire applications904 (e.g., drive by wire, steer by wire, brake by wire, etc.), safetyrelated functions 906, and/or diagnostic functions 908. For each type ofelectronic control unit, the network node module 910 may include one ormore sensors and/or one or more actuators. For example, if the networknode module 910 includes a transmission electronic control unit 916, thenetwork node module 910 may also include one or more transmissionactuators 914 and/or one or more transmission sensors 912. As anotherexample, if the network node module 910 includes a by-wire electroniccontrol unit 904, the network node module 910 may also include one ormore by-wire actuators 896 and/or one or more by-wire sensors 888. Asyet another example, if the network node by includes one or more safetyelectronic control units 906, the network node module 910 may alsoinclude one or more safety actuators 898 and/or one or more safetysensors 890. As a further example, if the network node module 910includes one or more diagnostic electronic control units 908, thenetwork node module 910 may also include one or more diagnosticactuators 900 and/or one or more diagnostic sensors 892.

The transmission network node module 910 may be implemented as one ormore integrated circuits, may include more or less components thanshown, and/or may be implemented as one or more network node modules.For example, the network node module 910 may be implemented using oneintegrated circuit to support the circuitry of the port 812, theswitching circuit module 786, and the network interfaces 788, thedigital to analog converters 790, and the analog digital converters 792.The other components are implemented on a common integrated circuit,separate integrated circuits, and/or as standalone components.

Note that each of the network node modules of FIGS. 43-57 may bestand-alone network node module coupled to a switch module or to abridge-routing module. Alternatively, or in addition to, each of thenetwork node module of FIGS. 43-57 may be a device module coupled to anetwork node as shown in FIGS. 41 and 42.

FIG. 58 is a schematic block diagram of an example of an occupantenvironment within a vehicle. The occupant environment includes a seat,a plurality of sensors 918-930, and a plurality of actuators 932. Thesensors 918-930 may be audio sensors 920, climate sensors 918, seatsensors 922, infrared sensors 924, radio frequency sensors 926, and/ortouch sensors 928. The actuators 932 may be seat actuators 932. Thesensors 918-930 and actuators 932 may be in a steering wheel networknode module, within a seat network node module, within a door networknode module, and/or within a dashboard network node module.

The touch sensor 928 may be used to detect whether the driver has one ormore hands on the steering wheel. The touch sense data is communicatedvia the network fabric to a processing module that interprets the data.For example, the processing module may interpret the touch sensed datato determine whether the driver has one or more hands on the steeringwheel, the position of the driver's hands, the force at which the driveris grabbing the steering wheel, etc. Based on this data, the processingmodule may generate one or more responses. For example, if the dataindicates that the driver has his or her hands off the steering wheelfor a predetermined period of time, the processing module may generatean audible and/or visual alarm. As another example, if the dataindicates that the driver is grabbing the steering wheel with excessiveforce, the processing module may generate control signals that activatea chair massage to relax the driver.

The infrared sensors 924 and/or the RF sensors 926 may be used to trackthe eye movement of the driver, the driver's head position, the driver'shand and/or body movement, hand gestures, etc. The driver sensed data iscommunicated via the network fabric to a processing module thatinterprets the data. For example processing module may interpret thedriver sensed data to determine whether the driver is focused on theroad, is distracted, is falling asleep, is indicating a visual command,etc. Based on this data, the processing module may generate one or moreresponses. For example, if the driver is determined to be fallingasleep, the processing module may generate an audible alarm, a visualalarm, may activate one or more seat actuators to shake the driver, etc.

The audio sensors 920 may be used to detect ambient noise, receiveaudible commands from a vehicle occupant, etc. The audio data iscommunicated via the fabric network to one or more processing modulesthat interpret the audio data. For example, if the sensor is detectingambient noise, the processing module may utilize the ambient noise audiodata for noise cancellation, surround sound balancing, in-cabinequalization, and/or other audio processing adjustments. As anotherexample, if the audio relates to a voice command, a correspondingprocessing module interprets the voice command and generates acorresponding response. As a specific example, the voice command may beto adjust the seat position. In this specific example, the processingmodule generates one or more commands that it provides, via the networkfabric, to one or more seat actuators, which process the commands toadjust the seat.

The climate sensors 918 may be used to detect ambient temperature, airmovement, air quality, etc. The climate sensed data is provided to oneor more processing modules via the network fabric. The processingmodules interpret the climate sensed data and, based on thisinterpretation, the processing module may generate one or moreresponses. For example, if the climate sensed data indicates that thetemperature is above a desired setting, the processing module maygenerate one or more commands to lower the terminal temperature,increase the fan rate, and/or other climate adjustment. Such commandsare provided via the network fabric to the corresponding actuators. Asanother example, if the climate sensed data indicates that the airquality is below a desired setting, the processing module may generate acommand to enable air filtering, switch to internal circulation of airto bringing in external air, the reverse, etc.

FIG. 59 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processingoccupant sensed data that begins by determining whether one or morepersons are in the vehicle 934. If only the driver is in the vehicle,the method proceeds by a receiving driver sentenced data 936. If,however, there are other occupants besides the driver in the vehicle,the method continues by receiving driver sensed data and other occupantsensed data 938.

The method continues by processing the driver sensed data 940 and, ifany, the other occupant sensed data 942. For other occupant sensed data,the method continues by determining whether the occupant sensed dataindicates whether an environmental adjustment should be made 944. Forexample, if the ambient temperature is above a desired setting, anadjustment may be made to the temperature setting and/or to the fanrate. As another example, if the occupant sensed data relates to achange in the occupants seat position, the processing module generatesthe corresponding commands, which are provided via the network fabric tothe appropriate actuators. At this point, with respect to the occupantsensed data, the method repeats 946.

For driver sensitive data, the method continues by determining whetherthe driver's actions relate to a safety issue 948. If not, the methodcontinues by determining whether the driver's actions relate to acontrol gesture 950. If not, the process continues by adjusting theenvironment based on the driver sensed data 944. Note that theadjustment to the environment may be based on both the driver senseddata and the other occupants sensed data.

If the driver's actions relate to a safety issue, the method continuesby determining whether there is also an externally sensed safety issue952 (e.g., a potential collision detection, icy road conditionsdetection, tire blowout detection, etc.). If not, the processing modulegenerates one or more control signals to activate a driver awarenessmeasure (e.g., an audible alarm, a visual alarm, shake the seat, etc.)in response to the driver's inattentiveness to driving 954.

If there is also an externally sensed safety issue, the method continuesby activating auto safety precaution measures (e.g., auto braking, autosteering, auto transmission adjustment, etc.) 956. The method continuesby determining whether the auto safety measures were successful inavoiding an accident 958. If yes, the method repeats 960. If not, themethod continues by recording the driver sensed data in a one-timeprogrammable (OTP) memory device 962.

FIG. 60 is a diagram of an example of a moving recording time window 964for recording real-time data, such as sensor data (e.g., driver senseddata and/or occupant sensed data) captured by one or more sensors withinthe vehicle. The recording time window 964 may have a fixed duration,such as a few minutes in length to one or more hours in length. Providedthat the vehicle is not in an accident, older driver sensed data isoverwritten with newer driver sensed data as the recording time window964 moves forward in time 966.

When an accident 970 is detected, the recording time window 964 isfrozen such that a sufficient amount of data preceding the accident 970and following the accident 970 is stored in a one-time programmablememory device. For example, if the time window 964 is 45 minutes induration, the 30 minutes preceding the accident 970 and the 15 minutesfollowing the accident 970 may be frozen and provided to the one-timeprogrammable memory device.

In addition to recording sensor data during vehicle operation, videodata of the exterior and/or interior of the vehicle may be recorded in aone-time programmable memory device when an accident 970 is detected.The video data may further include audio data, if the camera is capableof capturing sound. In this instance, the exterior video data may berecorded in the same one-time programmable memory device or its ownone-time programmable memory device. Note that each camera may have itsown one-time programmable memory device, share a one-time programmablememory device, and/or a combination thereof.

In addition to recording data during vehicle operation, the system maybe enabled to record proximity video data when the vehicle is in aparking lot and/or when the vehicle is not in operation. In thisinstance, if an accident 970 happens while the vehicle is not operating(e.g., is parked in a parking lot), the recording time window 964 willbe frozen around the accident 970. In this manner, video evidence may beobtained of the vehicle or vehicles causing the accident, even if thedriver of the other vehicle or vehicles leaves the scene of accident970.

FIG. 61 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of one or more vehicleblack boxes 972. Each video black box 972 may receive video data 974captured by one or more peripheral cameras 976 and sensor data 978captured by one or more sensors 980. In general, the video black box 972includes memory that stores the corresponding real-time data during therecording time window and includes circuitry that when an accident issensed, freezes the recording time window, and downloads the real-timedata within the frozen recording time window in a one-time programmablememory.

FIG. 62 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a vehicle blackbox 972 that includes a port 982, a network interface module 984, randomaccess memory 986, a processing module 988, a local power source 990, aone-time programmable memory 992, and a radio frequency interface module994. The local power source 990 may be a battery, power harvestingcircuit (e.g., generates a supply voltage from radio frequency signals,heat, solar energy, etc.), a battery charger, and/or a combinationthereof.

In an example of operation, the vehicle black box 972 is coupled to anetwork switch module 996 and receives video data and/or sensor datatherefrom. The network interface module 984 provides the real-time data(video and/or sensor data) to the RAM 986 and to the processing module988. The processing module 988 facilitates the storage of the real-timedata in the RAM 986. The amount of storage within the RAM 986 and theamount of data per second correspond to the recording time window. Forexample, if the RAM 986 has a storage capacity of 250 Gb, the data rateis 10 Mb per second, the RAM 986 can store 25,000 seconds of data (e.g.,approximately 7 hours). Note that the recording time window may beshorter than the capacity of the memory and corresponding data rate(e.g., it may be an hour for a 7 hour capable memory/data ratecombination).

As time passes without an accident, the older data stored in the RAM 986is overwritten with newer data. When an accident is detected, acollision indication is provided to the processing module 988, whichinstructs the RAM 986 to download the real-time data within the RAM 988to the one-time programmable memory 992. In one embodiment, theprocessing module 988 instructs the RAM 986 to begin downloading data tothe OTP memory 992 with the data immediately preceding and immediatelyfollowing the collision indication such that the most likely relevantdata is stored first. Once this data is stored, the processing module988 may instruct the RAM 986 to download additional data. In addition,the processing module 988 may activate the local power source 990, whichprovides power to the video black box 972 to enable the downloading ofdata to the one-time programmable memory 992. In other embodiments, thelocal power source 990 may further provide power to one or more externaldevices within the vehicle via the vehicular communication networkthrough port 982.

The data stored in the one-time programmable memory 992 may be retrievedthrough the RF interface 994 in accordance with a one-time programmablememory 992 communication protocol. For instance, after an accident,emergency services may utilize a radio to communicate with the RFinterface 994 to access the data in the one-time programmable memory992. To protect the data, the communication protocol is proprietary tothe auto manufacturer and the emergency services such that onlyemergency services may access the data.

In the alternative and depending on the severity of damage to thevehicle, the one-time programmable memory 992 may be accessed via thenetwork fabric (vehicular communication network) through port 982. Inthis instance, a computer device coupled to the network fabric mayaccess the data stored in the one-time programmable memory 992. In thismanner, an entity that is authorized to access a vehicle network fabricmay retrieve the data.

FIG. 66 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forcontrolling power distribution within a vehicular communication networkthat may be performed by a POE distribution module within a network nodemodule. The method begins by monitoring current draw of each device ofthe network node module 1074. The method continues by determiningwhether the current draw for each device exceeds a current limitthreshold 1076.

If the current draw of a device exceeds the current limit, the POEdistribution module disables power to the device 1078 and sends acorresponding message to the POE management module 1080. The method thencontinues by determining whether to resume providing power to the device1082. Such a determination may be based on receiving a signal from thePOE management module, a retry mechanism, an indication that the devicehas been replaced, and/or another indication. If power to the device isto be resumed, the method continues by enabling power to the device1084. Note that the monitoring of the current draw of a device andcorresponding disabling power to the device is done on adevice-by-device basis.

If the current draw of the devices does not exceed a current limit, themethod continues by determining whether a message to reset a device isreceived 1086. If yes, the method continues by disabling power to thedevice 1078 and sending a corresponding message to the POE managementmodule 1080. The POE distribution module will resume providing Power tothe device upon receipt of a message from the POE management module todo so.

If a message to reset a device is not received, the message continues bydetermining whether a message to power down a device is received 1088.If not, the method repeats as shown. If so, the method continues bydisabling power to the particular device 1078 and sending a message tothe POE management module that the device has been powered down 1080.The POE distribution module will resume providing Power to the deviceupon receipt of a message from the POE management module to do so.

FIG. 67 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a network interface1026 within a vehicular communication network. The network interface1026 of a network node module includes a network transceiver 1090 andprotocol processing unit that includes a protocol controller 1092 and/ora processing module 1094. The network transceiver 1090 provides thephysical layer interface to the network fabric for the correspondingdevice. The controller functions to receive and store bits to/from theprocessing module 1094, which functions to interpret messages andgenerate messages corresponding to the data to/from the network fabric.

In an example of operation, the network transceiver 1090 receives datafrom a device. As shown, the device is an electronic control unit (ECU)1096 that functions in accordance with an existing vehicle communicationprotocol (e.g., one of the protocols referenced in FIG. 1), but may beany vehicle device. In this example, the network transceiver 1090receives a legacy protocol formatted frame 1098 from the ECU 1096. Theprocessing module 1094 and/or protocol controller 1092 interpret theframe to determine that it is a legacy protocol frame 1098, includes rawdata, or is formatted in accordance with the global vehicle networkcommunication protocol.

For the legacy protocol, the processing module 1094 and/or controller1092 then determines to re-packetize the frame or to encapsulate thelegacy protocol frame 1098 in the payload section 1114 of a modifiednetwork frame/packet 1100. In addition, the processing module 1094and/or controller 1092 generates the data for the vehicle network field1106 of the modified network frames/packet 1100. For example, if the ECU1096 relates to a mission-critical function, the appropriate data willbe inserted into the vehicle network field 1106.

To re-packetize a frame, the processing module 1094 and/or protocolcontroller 1092 interprets the legacy protocol frame 1098 to extract adestination address, source address, type/length information, payload,cyclic redundancy check, and any other relevant information of thelegacy protocol frame 1098. Having extracted this data, the processingmodule 1094 and/or protocol controller 1092 reconstructs the modifiednetwork packet 1100 to include a preamble 1102, start of frame 1104,vehicle network field 1106, the destination address 1108, the sourceaddress 1110, type/length 1112, the payload 1114, the cyclic redundancycheck 1116, and a gap 1118 in accordance with the protocol of thevehicle network communication system.

To encapsulate the legacy protocol frame 1098 into a modified networkframe 1100, the processing module 1094 and/or protocol controller 1092interprets the legacy frame 1098 to extract the destination address andthe source address. The processing module 1094 and/or protocolcontroller 1092 generates a preamble 1102, start of frame 1104, thevehicle network field 1106, the destination address 1108 based on theextracted destination address, a source address 1110 based on theextracted source address, a type/length 1112, a payload 1114 thatincludes at least a portion of the legacy protocol frame 1098, the CRC1116, and a gap 1118. Depending on the length of the legacy protocolframe 1098, it may be completely encapsulated in the payload 1114 of themodified network frame 1100 or divided into sections, where each sectionis encapsulated in the payload 1114 of a modified network frame 1100.

For raw data (i.e., a signal stream not formatted in accordance with alegacy protocol or with the global vehicle network communicationprotocol), the protocol processing module converts the data into one ormore packets (or frames) in accordance with the global vehicle networkcommunication protocol. For global vehicle network communicationprotocol frames (or packets), the protocol processing module providesthe frames (or packets) to the network transceiver in accordance withthe locally managed prioritization scheme.

For an incoming packet from the network fabric, the processing module1094 and/or protocol controller 1092 interprets the vehicle networkfield 1106 to determine the type of frame or packet (and its prioritylevel). Based on this information, the processing module 1094 and/orprotocol controller 1092 facilitates prioritize processing of thepacket/frame 1100 as previously discussed or as may be subsequentlydiscussed. In addition, the processing module 1094 and/or protocolcontroller 1092 may packetize the incoming packet 1100 into the legacyprotocol frame 1098 (or multiple legacy protocol frames) or convert theincoming packet into raw data.

FIG. 68A is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for managingdevices coupled to the vehicular communication network that may beperformed by a network node module, such as a multiple device networknode module, a switching module and/or a bridge/routing module. Themethod begins by configuring the network node module in accordance witha particular use mode of a set of use modes 1101. Each use mode definesthe rights and privileges for devices to operate in the vehicularcommunication network. Each use mode may be implemented, for example, byan access control matrix or other type of access rules table thatenables the network access rights to be enforced. For example, theaccess control matrix may indicate the rules for device detection,device authentication, identifying damaged devices and disabling damageddevices, as will be described in more detail below in connection withFIGS. 69-71.

Upon being configured in accordance with a particular use mode of theset of use modes, the method continues by identifying a device coupledto the vehicular communication network 1103. The device may be a newlyadded device or an existing device. For example, the device may be adevice within a multiple device network node module or another networknode module. The method continues by managing the device in accordancewith the use mode (e.g., enabling the device to operate within thevehicular communication network in accordance with the use mode) 1105.For example, the network node module can authenticate a new device basedon the use mode (i.e., the use mode may indicate whether or not aparticular new device is allowed and the contact information forauthenticating the new device). As another example, the network nodemodule can monitor an existing device (i.e., by comparing storedexpected data and/or power consumption information to the actualconsumption of an existing device) to determine whether that existingdevice is damaged and/or disable a damaged device based on the use mode.

The method continues by determining whether the use mode has beenchanged 1107. In one embodiment, the network node module is securelyreconfigurable to any use mode in the set of use modes. For example, anauthorized agent may access the network node module via a direct(wireline) connection or a wireless connection to the network nodemodule and/or the vehicular communication network to select a particularuse mode. The use mode may be selected, for example, based on themake/model of the vehicle, the country to which the vehicle is destinedand any other factor(s). If the use mode has changed, the methodcontinues by reconfiguring the network node in accordance with the newuse mode 1101. If not, the method continues by managing the same oranother device(s) in accordance with the current use mode 1103.

FIG. 68B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a network nodemodule 1109 that includes a port 1111, a network interface 1113, adevice 1115 (which may be a new device or an existing device), a memory1117 and a processing module 1119. The memory 1115 maintains a set ofuse modes 1121, which may include, for example, a respective accesscontrol matrix for each use mode. The memory 1115 may further maintainseparately or as part of the access control matrix authenticationinformation for one or more new devices, such as contact information fora remote source to authenticate a new device, and expected data and/orpower consumption information for an existing device.

In an example of operation, the network node module 1109 is coupled tothe vehicular communication network via port 1111 and network interface1113 to receive input from an authorized agent selecting a particularuse mode 1121. In another embodiment, the use mode selection may beinput directly to the network node module via a direct (wired)connection or a wireless connection. Upon receiving the selected usemode, the processing module 1119 accesses the memory 1117 to retrievethe selected use mode 1121 and configures the network node module 1109in accordance with the selected use mode 1121. Based on the selected usemode 1121, the processing module 1119 manages the device 1115 byenabling the device to operate within the vehicular communicationnetwork in accordance with the selected use mode 1121.

FIG. 69 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for adding adevice to a vehicular communication network in accordance with aparticular use mode that may be performed by a network node module, suchas a multiple device network node module, a switching module and/or abridge-routing module. The method begins by a detecting the connectionof a new device, which may be a new network node module or a new deviceon a network node module 1120. The method continues by assigning arestricted use network address to the new device 1122. The restricteduse network address allows the new device to communicate via the networkfabric of the vehicular communication network for communication setupinformation only. As such, the new device is prohibited from accessingthe network fabric for any other purpose until the restricted useaddress is replaced with a network address. To enforce this restriction,the network fabric module interprets the packets from a new device todetermine whether its contents are related to communications set up. Ifnot, the packet is discarded and not placed on the network fabric.

The method continues by obtaining authentication information (e.g.,serial number, manufacturer ID code, etc.) from the new device using therestricted use network address 1124. The method continues by accessing aremote source via the gateway (e.g., a wireless connection through thegateway) to authenticate the new device 1126. For example, if the newdevice is a replacement device, the remote source may be the automobilemanufacturer, an authorized service provider, etc. As another example,the new device may be a new component (e.g., a new control unit, a newinterface, etc.) being added to the vehicular communication network andthe remote source may be an authorized supplier or the automobilemanufacturer. The network fabric module retrieves contact informationfor the remote source, accesses the remote source using the contactinformation and provides the authentication information regarding thenew device to the remote source for verification of the device. Thecontact information for the remote source may be, for example,maintained within the internal memory of the network fabric module,stored within a memory of the vehicular communication network andretrieved into the internal memory of the network fabric module ordownloaded into the internal memory of the network fabric module fromanother external (remote) source.

The method continues by receiving verification information from theremote source 1128. The verification information may indicate that thenew device is a device that can be reliably added to the network or mayindicate that the device could not be authenticated with instructions toeither not add the device to the network or allow the installer tooverride the verification information (e.g., using a password or otheroverride code).

The method continues by determining whether the new device wasauthenticated by the remote source 1130 (or authenticated by override ofthe installer). If yes, the process continues by converting therestricted use network address into a network address 1132 and updatingthe various databases of the vehicular communication network with thenew network address of the new device 1134.

If the new device was not authenticated, the process continues bydetermining whether there is another source that may be accessed 1136.If yes, the process repeats as shown. If not, the method continues bydenying the new device access to the network 1138 and, if possible,disabling power to the new device 1140. The disabling of the power maybe done as previously discussed with reference to one or more of FIGS.63-66 or as may be discussed with reference to one or more of FIGS. 70Aand 70B.

FIG. 70A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a new device 1142coupled to a switch module 1144 within a vehicular communicationnetwork. In this diagram, a new device 1142 (e.g., a network node with asingle device or a network node with a plurality of devices where one ofthe devices is new or all of devices are new) receives its power from apower over Ethernet (POE) connection 1150 from a switch module 1148and/or from a power line 1146 via a switch 1148.

If, as discussed with reference to FIG. 69, the new device 1142 is notauthenticated, the switch module 1148 may disable the POE 1150 to thenew device thereby disabling it. Alternatively, or in addition to, ifthe new device 1142 receives power from the power line 1146, aprocessing module of the network manager may disable the switch 1148that couples the new device 1142 to the power line 1146 therebydisabling the new device 1142. In either configuration, a new device1142 that is not authenticated may readily have the power removed fromit thereby effectively disabling it.

FIG. 70B is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a new device 1142added to a network node module 1154 that includes a port 1152, aswitching circuit module 1056, a plurality of network interfaces 1158,at least one existing device 1160, at least one new device 1142, one ormore switches 1148, a DC-DC converter 1162, and a power distributionmodule 1164. Upon detection of the new device 1142, the powerdistribution module 1164 enables power to be provided to the new device1142 either via the power line 1146 or the power over Ethernet (POE)1150.

If the new device 1142 is not authenticated as discussed with referenceto FIG. 69, the power distribution module 1164 removes power from thenew device 1142. This may be done by disabling the switch 1148 thatcouples the new device 1142 to the power line 1146 or by disabling thePOE connection 1150. In either event, the new device 1142 is powereddown and thus disabled. Note that the power distribution module 1164 mayreceive a control signal from the switching module 1156, or othernetwork fabric module, to remove power from the new device 1142.

FIG. 71 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for monitoringan existing device in accordance with a particular use mode to determinewhether the existing device is a damaged device within a vehicularcommunication network. The method of FIG. 71 may be performed by anetwork fabric module, such as a network node module, a switch module,and/or a bridge-routing module. The method begins with monitoring actualconsumption of the existing device, where the actual consumptionincludes at least one of data consumption of the existing device 1166(on one path) and power consumption of the existing device 1168 (onanother path). Note that the existing device may be a network nodemodule with one or more devices or a device of a network node module.

For the data consumption path, the method continues by determiningwhether the data consumption of the existing device deviates from anexpected level of data consumption 1170. Such expected consumptioninformation (expected level of data consumption and standard deviationtherefrom) may be, for example, maintained within the internal memory ofthe network fabric module, stored within a memory of the vehicularcommunication network and retrieved into the internal memory of thenetwork fabric module or downloaded into the internal memory of thenetwork fabric module from an external (remote) source. The expectedlevel of data consumption and standard deviation therefrom is based onthe type of device (e.g., a display, an electronic control unit, asensor, an actuator, etc.). For example, a display that is enabled toreceive a video file will consume a certain amount of data per timeinterval (e.g., 2 Mb per second for standard television formatting).

If an existing device is consuming data a rate that is outside of thestandard deviation, the method continues by determining whether there isa valid reason for the data consumption deviation 1172. For example, avalid reason may include a busy sensor due to driving conditions (e.g.,a car on a racetrack) or a rarely used sensor due to driving conditions(e.g., stuck in traffic). If the reason is valid, the method repeats asshown.

If, however, the reason is not valid, the method continues by flaggingthe device is damaged 1174. The method continues by disabling thedamaged device (e.g., remove power) or reducing the damaged device'saccess to the network fabric 1176. For example, the network fabricmodule may use a sliding scale based on type of device to reduce accessto the vehicular communication network, such that mission criticaldevices are not prevented from accessing the vehicular communicationnetwork for mission critical operations. In addition, a serviceindication may be generated regarding the damaged device.

For the power consumption path, the method continues by determiningwhether the power consumption of the device deviates from an expectedlevel of power consumption 1178. Again, such expected consumptioninformation (expected level of power consumption and standard deviationtherefrom) may be, for example, maintained within the internal memory ofthe network fabric module, stored within a memory of the vehicularcommunication network and retrieved into the internal memory of thenetwork fabric module or downloaded into the internal memory of thenetwork fabric module from an external (remote) source. The expectedlevel of power consumption and standard deviation therefrom is based onthe type of device (e.g., a display, an electronic control unit, asensor, an actuator, relay, etc.). For example, a display that isenabled to receive a video file will consume a certain amount of power(e.g., 2 Watts).

If an existing device is consuming power at a level that is outside ofthe standard deviation, the method continues by determining whetherthere is a valid reason for the data consumption deviation 1180. Forexample, driving conditions dictate a much higher or lower rate of useand thus a much higher or lower power consumption.

If, however, the reason is not valid, the method continues by flaggingthe device is damaged 1182 (e.g., is shorting or is an open circuit).The method continues by disabling the damaged device (e.g., removepower) or reducing the damaged device's access to the network fabric1184. In addition, a service indication may be generated regarding thedamaged device.

FIG. 72 is an example diagram of an embodiment of network and/orresource planning within a vehicular communication network. In thisexample, where possible, like devices are logically grouped together andcoupled to a grouped set of network modules (e.g., switch modules,bridge-routing modules, etc.). For example, mission critical sources(e.g., safety sensors) 1186, mission critical destinations 1188 (e.g.,safety actuators), and mission critical processing modules 1190 (e.g.,safety ECUs) are coupled to a set of switch modules 1192 andbridge-routing modules 1194. Similarly, video sources 1196 (e.g.,cameras, GPS navigation system, video game consoles, etc.), videoprocessing modules 1198 (e.g., graphics engine, video decoder, videoencoder, etc.), and video destinations 1200 (e.g., displays, etc.) arecoupled to a set of switch modules 1192 and bridge-routing modules 1194.The same type of grouping may be done for vehicle operation sources1202, destinations 1206, and processing resources 1204 and for safetysources 1208, safety destinations 1210, and safety processing resources1212.

By grouping the network node devices of the vehicle networkcommunications system, the network fabric is capable of supportingmultiple simultaneous packet communications. For example, vehicleoperation data 1220 may be routed from a vehicle operation source 1202to a vehicle operation processing resource 1204 concurrently withrouting entertainment video data 1216 from a video processing resource1198 to a video destination 1200 as long as the routings of therespective data do not use common resources of the network fabric.

FIG. 73 is an example diagram of an embodiment of a packet queue forconcurrent packet transmissions within a vehicular communicationnetwork. The queue includes a queue address 1222, a packet fieldidentifier 1224, a source identifier 1226, a destination identifier1228, and network resources 1230. From this data, a network manager(centralized or distributed) may identify packets that may beconcurrently transmitted.

For example the first entry in the queue has a queue address of 001 andidentifies mission-critical packet number one, which has a source ofmission-critical sensor one, a destination of mission-criticalprocessing module three and uses switching modules 2 and 3 andbridge-routing module 1 as the network resources. Since this is thefirst packet in the queue, it has priority for transmission. That beingsaid, other packets that use different network resources may beconcurrently transmitted without interfering with the priority of thefirst packet.

In this example the packet at queue address 003 and the packet at queueaddress 007 used different network resources that the packet at queueaddress 001 and used different network resources and each other. Assuch, these packets may be simultaneously transmitted via the networkfabric with acceptably negligible interference on each other.

FIG. 74 is an example diagram of concurrent packet transmissions withina vehicular communication network based on the packets of the queue inFIG. 73. As shown, at a given time tx, three packets can be concurrentlytransmitted since they use non-overlapping network fabric resources. Attime tx+1, another three packets may be concurrently transmitted sincethey do not use overlapping network fabric resources. Similarly at timetx+2, three packets may be concurrently transmitted. For the remainingtime intervals, based upon the remaining packets in the queue, eachpacket is singularly transmitted in a corresponding time interval toavoid the use of overlapping resources within the network fabric.

FIG. 75 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for concurrentpacket transmissions within a vehicular communication network that maybe performed by a network manager, a switch module, a bridge-routingmodule, and/or a network node module. The method begins by receiving apacket from a device, network node module, a switching module, and/or abridge-routing module 1232. The method continues by determining thesource and destination of the packet, which may be done by interpretingthe respective fields of the packet 1234. Network resources aredetermined based on a packet's source and destination at block 1236.

The method continues by entering the packet into a queue based on aprioritization scheme 1238. Various types of prioritization schemes havebeen discussed with reference to one or more preceding figures and maybe further discussed with reference to one or more subsequent figures.In addition to prioritizing the packet within the queue based on theprioritization scheme, the network resources are recorded in the queue.The network resources may be determined from a network topographical map(or database) that includes known sources, known destinations, knownredundant paths, known device states, and known network connectionsthere between.

The method continues by determining whether a higher priority packetthat uses different network resources is in the queue 1240. If yes, themethod continues by associating transmission of the present packet withthe higher priority packet for concurrent transmission 1242. The higherpriority packet may be the next packet to be transmitted or it may befurther down in the queue.

If there are no higher priority packets within the queue that usedifferent network resources, the method continues by determining whetherthe network resources of the present packet may be adjusted 1244. Forexample, there may be multiple routes between a source and destination,where one route is the primary route. If the primary route has a networkresource conflict with other packets higher in the queue, then adetermination is made as to whether the other potential routes may beused that avoid a network resource conflict. If not, the packet isplaced in the queue and is transmitted in accordance with its priorityin the queue.

If the network resources for the current packet can be adjusted, themethod continues by adjusting the network resources to avoid theconflict 1246. In this instance, the adjustment of the network resourcesmay be a temporary adjustment for this packet and recorded within thedatabases as such. Alternatively, this may be a permanent adjustment innetwork resources, which is recorded in the appropriate networkdatabases.

Within the network fabric, each switch module, bridge-routing module,and network node module contains one or more queues. Each of the queuesmay be dedicated to a particular type of packet, to a particular port,or ports, etc. Connecting modules (e.g., a switch module &bridge-routing module; two bridge-routing modules; a network node module& switch module; a network node module & a bridge-routing module)coordinate the transmission of packets there between utilizing themethod of FIG. 75 and/or any other method described herein

FIG. 76 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a data bridge 1248coupling a higher priority network fabric 1250 to a lower prioritynetwork fabric 1252 within a vehicular communication network. Thehigh-priority network fabric 1250, which typically supports higherpriority packets than the lower priority network fabric, includes aplurality of switch modules (SW mod) 1254, a plurality of bridge-routingmodules, and a plurality of network node modules, which support aplurality of resources (e.g., processing module resources 1256 andmemory resources 1258). The lower priority network fabric 1252 includesa plurality of switch modules 1254, a plurality of bridge-routingmodules, and a plurality of network node modules, which support aplurality of resources. The details of the network fabrics have beendiscussed in detail with reference to FIGS. 13-57 and will be discussedin greater detail with reference to FIGS. 87-99.

The data bridge 1248 includes a plurality of redundancy/backup modules1260 (as discussed in detail with reference to FIG. 17), a plurality ofpacket ingress units 1262, a plurality of packet egress units 1264, aprocessing module 1266, and memory 1268. Each of the redundancy/backupmodules 1260 is coupled to a switch module 1254 of a network fabric1250-1252, a packet egress unit 1264, and a packet ingress unit 1262. Asan alternative, a redundancy/backup module 1260 may be coupled to abridge-routing module within the corresponding network fabric 1250-1252.The processing module 1266 is configured to implement a high-to-lowpriority transfer process 1270 and a low-to-high packet transfer process1272. The memory 1268 stores one or more of the databases 1274, whichinclude a forwarding database, a filtering database, a routing table, anetwork protocol database, an information/entertainment database, avehicle operation database, a mission-critical database, and/or anetwork topology database.

In an example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 1260 receives apacket from the higher priority network fabric 1250. The packet maycontain data in its payload having one or more destinations coupled tothe lower priority network fabric 1252 or the packet may contain arequest for resources within its payload. In either case, theredundancy/backup module 1260 provides the packet to the packet ingressunit 1262. The packet ingress unit 1262 temporarily stores and filtersthe packet. For example, the packet ingress unit 1262 accesses a sourceand/or destination filter that contains network addresses of sources ofthe high-priority network fabric 1250 and/or destinations of the lowerpriority network fabric 1252 that are currently prohibited fromtransmitting or receiving packets from the other network fabric. If thepacket is not filtered, it is placed in an ingress queue for subsequentprocessing by the processing module 1266.

The processing module 1266 performs a high-to-low packet transferfunction 1270 upon the packet to determine whether the packet should bepassed to the lower priority network fabric 1252 and at what priority.The high-to-low packet transfer function 1270 will be described ingreater detail with reference to FIG. 79. If the packet is to betransferred to the lower priority network fabric 1252, it is outputtedto the lower priority packet egress unit 1264. The packet egress unit1264 provides the packet to the redundancy/backup module 1260 inaccordance with the priority of the packet for routing to the lowerpriority network fabric 1252.

In another example of operation, the lower priority redundancy/backupmodule 1260 receives a packet from the lower priority network fabric1252. The packet may contain data in its payload having one or moredestinations coupled to the higher priority network fabric 1250 or thepacket may contain a request for resources within its payload. In eithercase, the lower priority redundancy/backup module 1260 provides thepacket to the lower priority packet ingress unit 1262, which temporarilystores and filters the packet. For example, the lower priority packetingress unit 1262 accesses a source and/or destination filter thatcontains network addresses of sources of the lower-priority networkfabric 1252 and/or destinations of the higher priority network fabric1250 that are currently prohibited from transmitting or receivingpackets from the other network fabric. If the packet is not filtered, itis placed in an ingress queue for subsequent processing by theprocessing module 1266.

The processing module 1266 performs a low-to-high packet transferfunction 1272 upon the packet to determine whether the packet should bepassed to the higher priority network fabric 1250 and at what priority.The low-to-high packet transfer function 1272 will be described ingreater detail with reference to FIG. 80. If the packet is to betransferred to the higher priority network fabric 1250, it is outputtedto the higher priority packet egress unit 1264. The higher prioritypacket egress unit 1264 provides the packet to the redundancy/backupmodule 1260 in accordance with the priority of the packet for routing tothe higher priority network fabric 1250.

FIG. 77 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridge1248 coupling a higher priority network fabric 1250 to a lower prioritynetwork fabric 1252 within a vehicular communication network. Thehigh-priority network fabric 1250 and the lower priority network fabric1252 are as discussed with reference to FIG. 76.

The data bridge 1248 includes a plurality of redundancy/backup modules1260 (as discussed in detail with reference to FIG. 17), a plurality ofpacket ingress units 1262, a plurality of packet egress units 1264, aprocessing module 1266, a top priority by-pass module 1276, and memory1268. Each of the redundancy/backup modules 1260 is coupled a switchmodule 1254 of a network fabric 1250-1252, the top priority by-passmodule 1276, a packet egress unit 1264, and a packet ingress unit 1262.As an alternative, a redundancy/backup module 1260 may be coupled to abridge-routing module within the corresponding network fabric. Theprocessing module 1266 is configured to implement the high-to-lowpriority transfer process 1270 and the low-to-high packet transferprocess 1272. The memory 1268 stores one or more of the databases 1274,which include a forwarding database, a filtering database, a routingtable, a network protocol database, an information/entertainmentdatabase, a vehicle operation database, a mission-critical database,and/or a network topology database.

In an example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 1260 receives apacket from the higher priority network fabric 1250. The packet maycontain data in its payload having one or more destinations coupled tothe lower priority network fabric 1252 or the packet may contain arequest for resources within its payload. In either case, theredundancy/backup module 1260 provides the packet to the top prioritybypass module 1276. The top priority bypass module 1276 interprets thepacket to determine whether it has a top priority, and determinespriority routing based on the determination. If so, the packet isprovided to the lower priority redundancy/backup module 1260 forimmediate transmission (e.g., if needed, interrupt a current packettransmission) to the lower priority network fabric 1252. If the packetis not a top priority packet, the priority routing information mayindicate that the packet is to be processed as previously discussed withreference to FIG. 76. Note that the top priority bypass module 1276 mayperform the method illustrated in FIG. 35. Further note that packetsfrom the lower priority network fabric 1252 to the higher prioritynetwork fabric 1250 a process as previously discussed with reference toFIG. 76.

FIG. 78 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a packet egress unit1264 and a packet ingress unit 1262 of the data bridge of FIG. 76 or 77.The packet ingress unit 1262 includes a port 1278, an ingress buffer1280, a source and/or destination filter 1282 and an ingress queue 1284.The packet egress unit 1264 includes a logical multiplexer 1286, one ormore packet egress queues, a second logical multiplexer 1288, and a port1278.

In an example of operation, the packet ingress unit 1264 receives apacket, temporally stores it in an ingress buffer 1280, and provides itto the processing module 1266. The processing module 1266 interprets thepacket to determine its priority level for storage within the ingressqueue 1284 and for subsequent processing by the packet egress unit 1264.In addition, the processing module 1266 may perform the source and/ordestination filtering. In particular, the processing module 1266accesses a database of sources and/or destinations that are prohibitedfrom transmitting or receiving packets to/from another network fabric.The source and/or destination filter 1282 within the packet ingress unit1262 uses control information from the processing module 1266 to preventprohibited packets from being entered into the ingress queue 1284 and topass allowed packets to the ingress queue 1284.

The packet egress unit 1264 receives a packet and, under the control ofthe processing module 1266, provides it to one of the packet egressqueues or provides it directly to the output logical multiplexer 1286.If the package is provided to one of the packet egress queues, it isplaced within the queue based on a prioritization scheme. Theprioritization scheme for storing a packet in a queue may be done asdescribed with reference to one or more of the preceding figures and/oras may be described with reference to one or more of the followingfigures.

FIG. 79 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for transferringpackets from a high priority network fabric to a lower priority networkfabric, which may be performed by the processing module within the databridge of FIG. 76 or 77. The method begins by receiving a packet from ahigher priority network fabric 1290. The method continues by determiningwhether the packet is a top priority packet 1292. If yes and the databridge includes a top priority bypass module, the method continues bytransferring the packet using the top priority path 1294. When a packetis transmitted via a top priority path, it is recorded in a database ortable. Further, if the top priority bypass interrupts the transmissionof a current packet, the data bridge records the interruption of thecurrent packet such that it may be retransmitted at a later time.

If the packet is not a top priority packet or the data bridge does notinclude a top priority bypass module, the method continues bydetermining whether the packet is a high-priority packet (e.g., amission-critical packet, a near top priority packets, etc.) 1296. Ifyes, the method continues by bypassing the egress queues within thepacket egress module and may also include bypassing the ingress queueswithin the packet ingress unit 1298. Alternatively, the high-prioritypacket may be placed at the front of the egress queue within the packetegress unit and/or may be placed at the front of the ingress queuewithin the packet ingress unit.

If the packet is not a high priority packet, the method continues bydetermining the source, the destination, and the packet type, or packetcontent type, of the packet, which may be done by interpreting thevehicle network field, the source field, and the destination field ofthe packet 1300. The method continues by filtering the packet using asource-destination filter, which identifies sources of the higherpriority network fabric and/or destinations of the lower prioritynetwork fabric that are prohibited from receiving and/or transmittingpackets between the network fabrics 1302.

The method continues by determining whether the packet is filtered 1304.If yes, the method continues by not transferring the packet to the othernetwork fabric 1306. If, however, the packet is not filtered, theprocess continues by determining whether the packet is requestingresources (e.g., processing resources and/or memory resources) from theother network for a co-processing function and/or storage functions1308. If not, the packet is deemed to contain data and is added to thequeue of the packet ingress unit and/or queue of the packet egress unitbased on its priority 1310.

If the packet is requesting resources from the other network fabric, themethod continues by determining the availability of the requestedresources of the lower priority network 1312. The method continues bydetermining whether the resources are available 1314. If yes, the databridge forwards request to the network fabric, where the network managercoordinates the allocation of the network resources to the requestingentity 1316. In addition, the network manager may establish a virtualprivate network, allocate a certain amount of bandwidth, etc. to supportthe use of resources of the other network fabric.

If the resources are not available, the method continues by determiningwhether the current request has a priority level over certain activitieswithin the lower priority network fabric 1318. If not, the request isdiscarded 1320. If yes, the method continues by forwarding the requestto the network fabric 1316.

FIG. 80 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets from a lower priority network fabric to a higherpriority network fabric, which may be performed the processing modulewithin the data bridge of FIG. 76 or 77. The method begins by receivinga packet from a lower priority network fabric 1322. The method continuesby determining whether the packet is a high priority packet (e.g., amission-critical packet, etc.) 1324. If yes, the method continues bybypassing the egress queues within the packet egress module and may alsoinclude bypassing the ingress queues within the packet ingress unit1326. Alternatively, the high-priority packet may be placed at the frontof the egress queue within the packet egress unit and/or may be placedat the front of the ingress queue within the packet ingress unit.

If the packet is not a high priority packet, the method continues bydetermining the source, the destination, and the packet content type ofthe packet 1328. The method continues by filtering the packet using asource-destination filter, which identifies sources of the lowerpriority network fabric and/or destinations of the higher prioritynetwork fabric that are prohibited from receiving and/or transmittingpackets between the network fabrics 1330.

The method continues by determining whether the packet is filtered 1332.If yes, the method continues by not transferring the packet to thehigher priority network fabric 1334. If, however, the packet is notfiltered, the process continues by determining whether the packet isrequesting resources (e.g., processing resources and/or memoryresources) from the other network for a co-processing function and/orstorage functions 1336. If not, the packet is deemed to contain data andis added to the queue of the packet ingress unit and/or queue of thepacket egress unit based on its priority 1338.

If the packet is requesting resources from the other network fabric, themethod continues by determining the status of the vehicle (e.g.,driving, parked, higher priority network fabric resources being used,etc.) 1340. The method continues by determining whether the statusallows sharing (e.g., the vehicle is parked) 1342. If not, the packet isnot forwarded and is discarded 1344. The packet may be stored forsubsequent system analysis regarding sharing of resources between thenetwork fabrics.

If the status allows resources sharing, the method continues bydetermining whether resources of the higher priority network areavailable 1346. If not, the packet is not forwarded 1344. If, however,resources are available, the method continues with the data bridgeforwarding the request to the higher network fabric, where the networkmanager coordinates the allocation of the network resources to therequesting entity 1348. In addition, the network manager may establish avirtual private network, allocate a certain amount of bandwidth, etc. tosupport the use of resources of the other network fabric.

As an example, when a car is parked and one or more persons are watchinga video in the rear seat(s), resources of the higher priority networkmay be used to improve the video quality, to add 3D graphics, etc. Inthis example, since the vehicle is not operating, typical higherpriority functions are not being processed. As such, those resources maybe temporarily allocated for lower priority functions.

FIG. 81 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridge1248 coupling a 1^(st) network fabric 1350 to a 2^(nd) network fabric1352 within a vehicular communication network. The 1^(st) network fabric1350 includes a plurality of switch modules (SW mod) 1354, a pluralityof bridge-routing modules, and a plurality of network node modules,which support a plurality of resources (e.g., processing moduleresources 1356 and memory resources 1358). The 2^(nd) network fabric1352 includes a plurality of switch modules 1354, a plurality ofbridge-routing modules, and a plurality of network node modules, whichsupport a plurality of resources. The first and second network fabrics1350-1352 may support devices of equal priority and/or devices ofdiffering priorities. As such, from packet to packet, the networkfabrics may have equal priority or differing priorities. The details ofa network fabric have been discussed in detail with reference to FIGS.13-57 and will be discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS.87-99.

The data bridge 1248 includes a first set of modules for interfacingwith the first network fabric, a second set of modules for interfacingwith the second network fabric, and a coupling circuit 1360. Each of thefirst and second set of modules includes a redundancy/backup module 1260(as discussed in detail with reference to FIG. 17), a buffer 1362, agate module 1364, a processing module 1266, and memory 1268.

In an example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 1260 of thefirst set of modules receives a packet from the first network fabric1350. The packet is provided to the buffer 1362, which may include oneor more queues. In addition, the processing module 1266 interprets thepacket to determine its priority as well as to determine whether it canbe forwarded to the second network fabric 1352. The processing module1266 determines whether the packet can be forwarded based on a sourceand/or destination filter of sources and/or destinations of the firstnetwork fabric. The source and/or destination filtering may furtherinclude a packet type filter such a source or destination may transmitor receive one type of packet but not another, may prohibited from anycross network packet traffic, or may be allowed to transmit or receiveany type of packet with another network fabric. If the packet is to beforwarded, it is transferred from the buffer 1362 to the gate module1364 in accordance with its priority.

The gate module 1364 may be a memory device, a switching circuit, or acombination thereof that transmits packets to the coupling circuit andreceives packets from the coupling circuit. In this example, when apacket is ready for transmission, the gate module 1364 provides it tothe coupling circuit 1360. The coupling circuit 1360 may be a switch, aforwarding unit, a bus between the gate modules 1364, a combinationthereof, etc.

The coupling circuit 1364 provides the packet from the gate module 1364of the first set of modules to the gate module 1364 of the second set ofmodules. The processing module 1266 of the second set of modulesinterprets the packet to determine its priority and whether it should bediscarded or passed to the second network fabric 1352. The processingmodule 1266 uses a source and/or destination filter of sources,destinations, and packet content types of the second network fabric todetermine whether the packet should be discarded or passed. In thismanner, each of the processing modules 1266 is rendering an independentdecision on filtering the packet. Alternatively, the processing modules1266 share a source and/or destination filter database such that asingle filter step may be performed by one of the processing modules1266.

If the packet is to be passed to the second network fabric 1352, it isprovided to the buffer 1362 of the second set of modules and stored inone of its queues based on its prioritization and a prioritizationscheme. When the packet is at the front of its queue, it is provided tothe redundancy/backup module 1260 for routing to the second networkfabric 1352. Note that packets from the second network fabric 1352 tothe first network fabric 1350 are processed in a similar manner but in areverse order.

In another example of operation, a device of the first network fabric1350 may desire to store data within the memory 1268 of the data bridge1248. In this instance, the data is provided in one or more packets thatare received via the redundancy backup module 1260, interpreted by theprocessing module 1266, and subsequently stored in the memory 1268. Inthis manner, the memory 1268 may be used for backup, history trackingetc. Note that a device of the second network fabric 1352 may store datain the memory 1268 of the second set of modules in a similar manner.

FIG. 82 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets between network fabrics by the data bridge of FIG.81. The method begins by receiving a packet from the associated networkfabric 1366. The packet may be temporarily stored in a buffer. Themethod continues by determining whether the packet is a high prioritypacket 1368. If so, the method continues by enabling the gate module topass the packet to the coupling circuit immediately (e.g., interrupt acurrent transmission of a packet) or near immediately (e.g., wait untilthe transmission of the current packet is complete and then transmit thehigh priority packet) 1370.

If the packet, or packet content, is not a high-priority packet, themethod continues by determining the source, destination, and packet type1372. The method continues by filtering the packet using a source and/ordestination filter 1374. As previous mentioned, the source and/ordestination filter may include a list of sources and/or destinations ofthe associated network that are prohibited from packet transfers to/fromanother network fabric and/or may include, for each source ordestination, a list of packet types, or patent content types, that areallowed and/or a list of packet types, or packet content types, that areprohibited.

The method continues by determining whether the packet is filtered(e.g., prohibited from transmission to another network fabric) 1376. Insome embodiments this filtering is based on the type of content in apacket, e.g. the packet content type. If yes, the packet is nottransferred 1378. If the packet is not filtered, the method continues byupdating a queue in the buffer for subsequent passing of the packet tothe coupling circuit 1380. The method continues by determining whetherthe packet is first in the queue 1382. If not, the method repeats asshown. If the packet is first in the queue, the method continues byenabling the gate module to pass the packet to the coupling circuit1384.

FIG. 83 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method fortransferring packets between network fabrics by the data bridge of FIG.81. The method begins by receiving a packet from another network fabricvia the coupling circuit 1386. The gate module may temporarily store thepacket in its own buffer or in the buffer of the associated set ofmodules. The method continues by determining whether the packet is ahigh priority packet 1388. If the packet is a high priority packet, themethod continues by enabling the gate module to pass the packet to theredundancy/backup module for immediate or near immediate transmission tothe associated network fabric 1390.

If the packet is not a high-priority packet, the method continues bydetermining the source, destination, and packet type, or packet contenttype 1392. The method continues by filtering the packet using anassociated source and/or destination filter 1394. The method continuesby determining whether the packet is filtered 1396. If so, the packet isdiscarded and not passed to the redundancy/backup module 1398. If thepacket is not filtered, the method continues by updating a queue in thebuffer for subsequent passing the packet to the redundancy/backup module1400. Once the packet is first in the queue 1402, it is outputted to theredundancy/backup module for forwarding to the associated network fabric1404.

FIG. 84 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for storing databy a data bridge of FIGS. 76, 77, and/or 81. The method begins byreceiving a packet from an associated network fabric for storage 1406.The packet may be temporarily stored in a buffer. The method continuesby determining the source of the packet 1408 and subsequentlydetermining whether the source is authorized to store data in the memoryof the data bridge 1410. If not, the packet is discarded and the databridge may generate a message indicating that the source is notauthorized to store data 1412.

If the source is authorized, the method continues by extracting the datafrom the payload of the packet 1414. The method continues by determiningwhether a file in the memory already exists for storing the data 1416.If not, the data bridge creates a file in memory and stores the data inthe file 1418. The method continues by sending an acknowledgment of datastorage to the source 1420. If the file already exists, the data isadded to the existing file and an acknowledgment of data storage is sentto the source 1422.

FIG. 85 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridge1248 coupling a higher priority network fabric, a middle prioritynetwork fabric, and a lower priority network fabric together within avehicular communication network. The high-priority network fabric, whichtypically supports higher priority packets than the middle and lowerpriority network fabric, includes a plurality of switch modules (SWmod), a plurality of bridge-routing modules, and a plurality of networknode modules, which support a plurality of resources (e.g., processingmodule resources and memory resources). The middle priority networkfabric, which typically supports higher priority packets than the lowerpriority network fabric but lower priority packets than the higherpriority network fabric, includes a plurality of switch modules, aplurality of bridge-routing modules, and a plurality of network nodemodules, which support a plurality of resources. The lower prioritynetwork fabric includes a plurality of switch modules, a plurality ofbridge-routing modules, and a plurality of network node modules, whichsupport a plurality of resources. The details of the network fabricshave been discussed in detail with reference to FIGS. 13-57 and will bediscussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 87-99.

The data bridge 1248 includes a plurality of redundancy/backup modules1260 (as discussed in detail with reference to FIG. 17), a plurality ofpacket ingress units 1262, a plurality of packet egress units 1264, aprocessing module 1266, and memory 1268. Each of the redundancy/backupmodules 1260 is coupled to a switch module of an associated networkfabric, a packet egress unit 1264, and a packet ingress unit 1262. As analternative, a redundancy/backup module 1260 may be coupled to abridge-routing module within the associated network fabric. Theprocessing module 1266 is configured to implement a higher-to-lowerpriority transfer process 1270 and a lower-to-higher packet transferprocess 1272. The memory stores one or more of the databases 1274, whichinclude a forwarding database, a filtering database, a routing table, anetwork protocol database, an information/entertainment database, avehicle operation database, a mission-critical database, and/or anetwork topology database.

In an example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 1260 receives apacket from the higher priority network fabric. The packet may containdata in its payload having one or more destinations coupled to themiddle and/or lower priority network fabric or the packet may contain arequest for resources within its payload. In either case, theredundancy/backup module 1260 provides the packet to the packet ingressunit 1264. The packet ingress unit 1264 temporarily stores and filtersthe packet. For example, the packet ingress unit 1264 accesses a sourceand/or destination filter that contains network addresses of sources ofthe high-priority network fabric and/or destinations of the middle andlower priority network fabrics that are currently prohibited fromtransmitting or receiving packets from the network fabrics of thecurrent packet transaction. If the packet is not filtered, it is placedin an ingress queue for subsequent processing by the processing module1266.

The processing module 1266 performs a higher-to-lower packet transferfunction 1270 upon the packet to determine whether the packet should bepassed to the middle and/or lower priority network fabric and at whatpriority. The higher-to-lower packet transfer function 1270 wasdescribed with reference to FIG. 79. If the packet is to be transferredto the middle and/or lower priority network fabric, it is outputted tothe middle and/or lower priority packet egress unit. The middle and/orlower priority packet egress unit 1264 provides the packet to itsassociated redundancy/backup module 1260 in accordance with the priorityof the packet for routing to the middle and/or lower priority networkfabric.

In another example of operation, the lower priority redundancy/backupmodule receives a packet from the lower priority network fabric. Thepacket may contain data in its payload having one or more destinationscoupled to the higher priority network fabric or the packet may containa request for resources within its payload. In either case, the lowerpriority redundancy/backup module 1260 provides the packet to the lowerpriority packet ingress unit 1264, which temporarily stores and filtersthe packet. For example, the lower priority packet ingress unit accessesa source and/or destination filter that contains network addresses ofsources of the lower-priority network fabric and/or destinations of themiddle and/or higher priority network fabric that are currentlyprohibited from transmitting or receiving packets from other networkfabrics. If the packet is not filtered, it is placed in an ingress queuefor subsequent processing by the processing module 1266.

The processing module 1266 performs a lower-to-higher packet transferfunction 1272 upon the packet to determine priority routing of thepacket, e.g. whether the packet should be passed to the middle and/orhigher priority network fabrics and at what priority. Thelower-to-higher packet transfer function 1272 was described withreference to FIG. 80. If the packet is to be transferred to the middleand/or higher priority network fabric, it is outputted to the middleand/or higher priority packet egress units 1264. Each of the middleand/or higher priority packet egress units 1264 provides the packet toits associated redundancy/backup module 1260 in accordance with thepriority of the packet for routing to the middle and/or higher prioritynetwork fabric.

In yet another example of operation, the middle priorityredundancy/backup module 1260 receives a packet from the middle prioritynetwork fabric. The packet may contain data in its payload having one ormore destinations coupled to the lower and/or higher priority networkfabric or the packet may contain a request for resources within itspayload. In either case, the middle priority redundancy/backup module1260 provides the packet to the middle priority packet ingress unit1262, which temporarily stores and filters the packet. For example, themiddle priority packet ingress unit accesses a source and/or destinationfilter that contains network addresses of sources of the middle-prioritynetwork fabric and/or destinations of the lower and/or higher prioritynetwork fabric that are currently prohibited from transmitting orreceiving packets from other network fabrics. If the packet is notfiltered, it is placed in an ingress queue for subsequent processing bythe processing module 1266.

If the packet has a destination in the higher priority network fabric,the processing module 1266 performs a lower-to-higher packet transferfunction 1272 upon the packet to determine whether the packet should bepassed to the higher priority network fabrics and at what priority. Ifthe packet is to be transferred to the higher priority network fabric,it is outputted to the higher priority packet egress unit 1264. Thehigher priority packet egress unit 1264 provides the packet to itsassociated redundancy/backup module 1260 in accordance with the priorityof the packet for routing to the higher priority network fabric.

If the packet has a destination in the lower priority network fabric,the processing module 1266 performs a higher-to-lower packet transferfunction 1270 upon the packet to determine whether the packet should bepassed to the lower priority network fabrics and at what priority. Ifthe packet is to be transferred to the lower priority network fabric, itis outputted to the lower priority packet egress unit 1264. The lowerpriority packet egress 1264 unit provides the packet to its associatedredundancy/backup module 1260 in accordance with the priority of thepacket for routing to the lower priority network fabric.

FIG. 86 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a data bridge1248 coupling a 1^(st) network fabric, a 2^(nd) network fabric, and a3^(rd) network fabric together within a vehicular communication network.Each of the 1^(st), 2^(nd), and 3^(rd) network fabrics includes aplurality of switch modules, a plurality of bridge-routing modules, anda plurality of network node modules, which support a plurality ofresources (e.g., processing module resources and memory resources). Inaddition, each of the first, second, and third network fabrics maysupport devices of equal priority and/or devices of differingpriorities. As such, from packet to packet, the network fabrics may haveequal priority or differing priorities. The details of a network fabrichave been discussed in detail with reference to FIGS. 13-57 and will bediscussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 87-99.

The data bridge 1248 includes a first set of modules for interfacingwith the first network fabric, a second set of modules for interfacingwith the second network fabric, a third set of modules for interfacingwith the third network fabric, and a coupling circuit. Each of thefirst, second, and third set of modules includes a redundancy/backupmodule 1260 (as discussed in detail with reference to FIG. 17), a buffer1362, a gate module 1364, a processing module 1266, and memory 1268.

In an example of operation, the redundancy/backup module 1260 of thefirst set of modules receives a packet from the first network fabric.The packet is provided to the buffer 1362, which may include one or morequeues. In addition, the processing module 1266 interprets the packet todetermine its priority as well as to determine whether it can beforwarded to the second and/or third network fabrics. The processingmodule 1266 determines whether the packet can be forwarded based on asource and/or destination filter of sources and/or destinations of thefirst network fabric. The source and/or destination filtering mayfurther include a packet type filter indicating that a source ordestination may transmit or receive one type of packet but not anotheror may be allowed to transmit or receive packets (type specific or alltypes) with one network fabric but not with another. If the packet is tobe forwarded to a particular network fabric, it is transferred from thebuffer 1362 to the gate module 1364 in accordance with its priority.

The gate module 1364 may be a memory device, a switching circuit, or acombination thereof that transmits packets to the coupling circuit 1360and receives packets from the coupling circuit 1360. In this example,when a packet is ready for transmission, the gate module 1364 providesit to the coupling circuit 1360. The coupling circuit 1360 may be aswitch, a forwarding unit, a bus between the gate modules 1364, acombination thereof, etc.

The coupling circuit 1360 provides the packet from the gate module 1364of the first set of modules to the gate module 1364 of the second set ofmodules and/or to the gate module 1364 of the third set of modules. Theprocessing module 1266 of the second and/or third set of modulesinterprets the packet to determine its priority and whether it should bediscarded or passed to the second network fabric. The processing module1266 uses a source and/or destination filter of sources, destinations,and packet types of the second and/or third network fabric,respectively, to determine whether the packet should be discarded orpassed. In this manner, each of the processing modules 1266 is renderingan independent decision on filtering the packet. Alternatively, theprocessing modules 1266 share a source and/or destination filterdatabase such that a single filter step may be performed by one of theprocessing modules 1266.

If the packet is to be passed to the second and/or third network fabric,it is provided to the buffer 1362 of the second and/or third set ofmodules and stored in one of its queues based on its prioritization anda prioritization scheme. When the packet is at the front of its queue,it is provided to the associated redundancy/backup module 1260 forrouting to the second and/or third network fabric. Note that packetsfrom the other network fabrics are processed in a similar manner but ina reverse order.

In another example of operation, a device of the first network fabricmay desire to store data within the memory of the data bridge 1248. Inthis instance, the data is provided in one or more packets that arereceived via the redundancy backup module 1260, interpreted by theprocessing module 1266, and subsequently stored in the memory 1268. Inthis manner, the memory may be used for backup, history tracking etc.Note that a device of the second and/or third network fabric may storedata in the memory 1268 of the second and/or third set of modules in asimilar manner.

FIG. 87 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wired and wirelessnetwork fabric 1424 that includes vehicle network modules (e.g., aplurality of bridge-routing modules 1426 and a plurality of switchmodules 1428) and is coupled to a network manager 40. The switch modules1428 are coupled to one or more network node modules 1430 and to atleast one bridge-routing module 1426. Each of the bridge-routing modules1426 are coupled to at least one switching module 1428 and at least oneother bridge-routing module 1426. Each of the network node modules 1430,the switch modules 1428, and the bridge-routing modules 1426 includes awired network connection and a wireless network connection. The wiredcoupling between bridge-routing modules 1426, between bridge-routingmodules 1426 and switch modules 1428, and between switch modules 1428and network node modules 1430 includes multiple cables (e.g., twistedpair, coaxial cable, category 5 cables, fiber optics, etc.).

The wireless coupling between the same modules may be in accordance withone or more standardized wireless communication protocols in the 2.4 GHzfrequency band, the 5 GHz frequency band, the 60 GHz frequency band,etc. or a may be a proprietary wireless communication protocol.Standardized wireless communication protocols includes, but are notlimited to, IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, advanced mobile phone services(AMPS), digital AMPS, global system for mobile communications (GSM),code division multiple access (CDMA), local multi-point distributionsystems (LMDS), multi-channel-multi-point distribution systems (MMDS),radio frequency identification (RFID), Enhanced Data rates for GSMEvolution (EDGE), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), WCDMA, LTE (LongTerm Evolution), WiMAX (worldwide interoperability for microwaveaccess), and/or variations thereof.

In an example of operation, the network manager 40 determines a wiredpacket communication mode and/or a wireless packet communication modefor the vehicle communication network. When the network is in thewireless packet communication mode, the network manager 40 coordinatewireless communication of packets among the plurality of network nodemodules, the plurality of switch modules, and the plurality ofbridge-routing modules based on individual content of the packets (e.g.,mission critical, network data, vehicle operation, and/or infotainment)and wireless channel mapping.

In one instance of the present example, the wireless channel mappingincludes allocating a channel of a set of channels within a frequencyband for at least a portion of conveyance of a wireless packet from asource to a destination via a wireless network node module(s), awireless switch module(s), and/or a wireless bridge-routing module(s).As a more specific example, the channel may be allocated to wirelesslytransmit the packet from the source to the destination via one or morenetwork node modules, one or more switch modules, and/or one or morebridge-routing modules. As another more specific example, the channelmay be allocated to convey the packet from the first network module, toa switch module, and to a bridge-routing module and a second channel maybe allocated to convey the packet from the bridge-routing module, to asecond switch module, to a second network node module.

The allocation of a channel to convey a packet may be done in a varietyof ways. For example, the channel may be permanently allocated forpackets of a first content type (e.g., mission critical packets, networkdata packets, etc.); for packets from a source of first type of device(e.g., a safety critical sensor); and/or for packets to a destination ofa particular type (e.g. safety critical processor, safety criticalactuator, etc.). As another example, the channel may be semi-permanentallocated (e.g., for a set time, for a number of packets, as instructedby the network manager, etc.) for packets of a second content type(e.g., network data, vehicle operation, etc.); for packets from a sourceof second type of device (e.g., a network manager); and/or for packetsto a destination of a particular type (e.g. non-critical vehicleoperation devices, etc.). As yet another example, the channel may bedynamically allocated when the packet is of a third type (e.g.,infotainment, non-critical vehicle operation, etc.); for packets from asource of third type of device (e.g., window up/down sensor, amultimedia processing, memory, etc.); and/or for packets to adestination of a particular type (e.g. window up/down actuator,multimedia display devices, etc.).

As another example of allocating channels per the wireless channelmapping, the channels within a frequency band may be allocated incellular pattern among a plurality of regions within the wirelessvehicle communication network to reduce channel interference fromoverlapping channel use in different ones of the plurality of regions.For example, a set of switching modules and/or bridge-routing modules inone section of the network fabric may use the same channels (or subsetthereof) as another set of switching modules and/or bridge-routingmodules in a different section of the network fabric.

When the network is in the wired packet communication mode, the networkmanager 40 coordinates wired communication of packets among the networknode modules, the switch modules, and/or the bridge-routing modulesbased on the individual content of the packets and in accordance with aglobal vehicle network communication protocol. The global vehiclenetwork communication protocol information regarding a network fabricformatting of the packets, information regarding packet transmissionprioritization schemes, information regarding network managementprocessing and/or information regarding vehicle network operationparameters.

Within the network fabric, the wired and wireless connections may beused in a variety of ways. For example, the wireless connections may beused for backup and/or redundancy transmissions to provide a fast failover if a wired connection fails. As another example, the wirelessconnections may be used for network configuration and system level data,while the wired connections are used for mission critical data, vehicleoperation data, and/or information-entertainment data. As a furtherexample, the wireless connections and wired connections may be usedindependently to support concurrent packet transmissions.

The network fabric may be used within the unified network fabric or themultiple network fabric communication networks of the preceding figures.Note that more or less switching modules 1428 and bridge-routing modules1426 may be included in the network fabric. Further note that themultiple wired connections between switching modules 1428 andbridge-routing modules 1426 may include two or more cables where one ofthe cables is active and the other is used for fail over or redundancy.Still further note that a network node module may be directly connectedto a bridge-routing module 1426.

FIG. 87A is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of wireless vehiclecommunication network that includes a wireless network fabric 1425, anetwork manager 40, and network node modules 1431. The wireless networkfabric 1425 includes bridge-routing modules 1427 and switch modules1429. Each of the switch modules 1429 is wirelessly (e.g., RF, infrared,optical, etc.) coupled to one or more network node modules 1431 and toat least one bridge-routing module 1427. Each of the bridge-routingmodules 1427 is wirelessly coupled to at least one switching module 1429and to at least one other bridge-routing module 1427. Each of thenetwork node modules 1431, the switch modules 1429, and thebridge-routing modules 1427 includes at least one wireless networkconnection (e.g., an RF transceiver, a MMW transceiver, an IRtransceiver, etc.).

The network manager 40 coordinates wireless communication of packetsamong the wireless network node modules 1431, the wireless switchmodules 1429, and/or the wireless bridge-routing modules 1427 based onindividual content of the packets (e.g., mission critical, network data,vehicle operation, infotainment, etc.) and wireless channel mapping. Inan example, the wireless channel mapping includes allocating a channelof a set of channels within a frequency band for at least a portion ofconveyance of a packet from a source to a destination via a wirelessnetwork node module(s), a wireless switch module(s), and/or a wirelessbridge-routing module(s).

As a more specific example, the channel may be allocated to wirelesslytransmit the packet from the source to the destination via one or morenetwork node modules, one or more switch modules, and/or one or morebridge-routing modules. As another more specific example, the channelmay be allocated to convey the packet from a first network module, to afirst switch module, and to a bridge-routing module and a second channelmay be allocated to convey the packet from the bridge-routing module, toa second switch module, to a second network node module.

The allocation of a channel to convey a packet may be done in a varietyof ways. For example, the channel may be permanently allocated forpackets of a first content type (e.g., mission critical packets, networkdata packets, etc.); for packets from a source of first type of device(e.g., a safety critical sensor); and/or for packets to a destination ofa particular type (e.g. safety critical processor, safety criticalactuator, etc.). As another example, the channel may be semi-permanentallocated (e.g., for a set time, for a number of packets, as instructedby the network manager, etc.) for packets of a second content type(e.g., network data, vehicle operation, etc.); for packets from a sourceof second type of device (e.g., a network manager); and/or for packetsto a destination of a particular type (e.g. non-critical vehicleoperation devices, etc.). As yet another example, the channel may bedynamically allocated when the packet is of a third type (e.g.,infotainment, non-critical vehicle operation, etc.); for packets from asource of third type of device (e.g., window up/down sensor, amultimedia processing, memory, etc.); and/or for packets to adestination of a particular type (e.g. window up/down actuator,multimedia display devices, etc.).

As another example of allocating channels per the wireless channelmapping, the channels within a frequency band may be allocated incellular pattern among a plurality of regions within the wirelessvehicle communication network to reduce channel interference fromoverlapping channel use in different ones of the plurality of regions.For example, a set of switching modules and/or bridge-routing modules inone section of the network fabric may use the same channels (or subsetthereof) as another set of switching modules and/or bridge-routingmodules in a different section of the network fabric.

The network fabric has been presented in a variety of embodiments asshown in FIGS. 13, 87, and 87A. Other embodiments of the network fabricmay be implemented by using combinations of the embodiments of FIGS. 13,87, and 87A. For example, some of the switch modules and/orbridge-routing modules may be wired only (as shown in FIG. 13), some maybe wireless only (as shown in FIG. 87A), and/or some may be wired andwireless (as shown in FIG. 87). Similarly, some of the network nodemodules may be wired only (as shown in FIG. 13), some may be wirelessonly (as shown in FIG. 87A), and/or some may be wired and wireless (asshown in FIG. 87).

FIG. 87 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wired and wirelessnetwork fabric 1424 that includes a plurality of bridge-routing modules1426 and a plurality of switch modules 1428. The switch modules 1428 arecoupled to one or more network node modules 1430 and to at least onebridge-routing module 1426. Each of the bridge-routing modules 1426 arecoupled to at least one switching module 1428 and at least one otherbridge-routing module 1426. Each of the network node modules 1430, theswitch modules 1428, and the bridge-routing modules 1426 includes awired network connection and a wireless network connection. The wiredcoupling between bridge-routing modules 1426, between bridge-routingmodules 1426 and switch modules 1428, and between switch modules 1428and network node modules 1430 includes multiple cables (e.g., twistedpair, coaxial cable, category 5 cables, fiber optics, etc.).

The wireless coupling between the same modules may be in accordance withone or more standardized wireless communication protocols in the 2.4 GHzfrequency band, the 5 GHz frequency band, the 60 GHz frequency band,etc. or a may be a proprietary wireless communication protocol.Standardized wireless communication protocols includes, but are notlimited to, IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, advanced mobile phone services(AMPS), digital AMPS, global system for mobile communications (GSM),code division multiple access (CDMA), local multi-point distributionsystems (LMDS), multi-channel-multi-point distribution systems (MMDS),radio frequency identification (RFID), Enhanced Data rates for GSMEvolution (EDGE), General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), WCDMA, LTE (LongTerm Evolution), WiMAX (worldwide interoperability for microwaveaccess), and/or variations thereof.

Within the network fabric, the wired and wireless connections may beused in a variety of ways. For example, the wireless connections may beused for backup and/or redundancy transmissions to provide a fast failover if a wired connection fails. As another example, the wirelessconnections may be used for network configuration and system level data,while the wired connections are used for mission critical data, vehicleoperation data, and/or information-entertainment data. As a furtherexample, the wireless connections and wired connections may be usedindependently to support concurrent packet transmissions.

The network fabric may be used within the unified network fabric or themultiple network fabric communication networks of the preceding figures.Note that more or less switching modules 1428 and bridge-routing modules1426 may be included in the network fabric. Further note that themultiple wired connections between switching modules 1428 andbridge-routing modules 1426 may include two or more cables where one ofthe cables is active and the other is used for fail over or redundancy.Still further note that a network node module may be directly connectedto a bridge-routing module 1426.

FIG. 88 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a bridge/routingmodule 1426 that includes a plurality of redundancy/backup modules 1432,a wired packet egress unit 1434, a wireless packet egress unit 1436, awired packet ingress unit 1438, a wireless packet ingress unit 1440, anegress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442, an ingress sync serialand/or parallel unit 1444, a processing module 1446, and memory 1448.The processing module 1446 is configured to implement a local networkmanagement function 1450, a bridging function 1452, and or a routingfunction 1454. The memory 1448 stores one or more tables and/ordatabases. For instance, the memory 1448 may store a forwarding database1456, a filtering database 1458, a routing table 1460, a networkprotocol database 1462, and information/entertainment database 1464, avehicle operations database 1466, a mission-critical database 1468, anda predetermined network topology database 1470.

In an example of wired operation only, one of the redundancy/backupmodules 1432 receives a packet. The packet is routed to the packetingress unit 1474 via the wired packet ingress unit 1438 and the ingresssync serial and/or parallel unit 1444, where the local networkmanagement function 1450 interprets the packet. Such an interpretationincludes determining the type of packet, or packet content type (e.g.,mission critical, network data, info-entertainment, vehicle operation,etc.). Having identified the packet, the local network managementfunction 1450 determines the processing for the packet and thenprocesses the packet accordingly. Specific examples of this werediscussed with reference to FIG. 14.

After the processing module 1446 has processed the packet, the packetegress unit 1472 received the processed packet. Based on informationreceived from the processing module 1446, the packet egress unit 1472places the packet in a queue for subsequent transmission to one of theredundancy-backup modules 1432 via the egress sync serial and/orparallel unit 1442 and the wired egress unit 1434.

In an example of wireless operation only, the RF transceiver 1476receives a wireless packet that it provides to the wireless ingress unit1438. The wireless ingress unit 1438 temporarily stores the packet andsubsequently forwards it to the packet ingress unit 1474 via the ingresssync serial and/or parallel units 1444. The processing module 1446interprets packet as discussed above and subsequently places a processpacket in the packet egress unit 1472. The packet egress unit 1472provides the process packet to the wireless egress unit 1436 via theegress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442. The wireless egress unit1436 provides the processed packet to the RF transceiver 1476 forwireless transmission to another bridge-routing module, to a switchmodule, and/or to a network node module.

In an example of concurrent wired and wireless operation, the wirelesscommunication path is used for redundancy transmissions. In thissituation, the RF transceiver 1476 receives a wireless version of thepacket and one of the redundancy/backup modules 1432 receives a wiredversion of the packet. The RF transceiver 1476 provides the wirelessversion of the packet to the wireless ingress unit 1440 and theredundancy/backup module 1432 provides the wired version of the packetto a wired ingress unit 1438.

The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 retrieves the wiredand wireless versions of the packet from the respective ingress units.The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 synchronizes theversions of the packet, analyzes the packets, and packet content, andselects one of them for outputting to the packet ingress unit 1474. Theingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 may perform errorcorrection on one or both of the packets based on the packets, a matchedfiltering function, a convergence function, etc. The processing module1446 retrieves the packet from the packet ingress unit 1474 inaccordance with its priority and processes it as previously discussed.

The processing module 1446 places the processed packet into the packetegress unit in accordance with its priority level. When the processpacket has reached the top of a queue within the packet egress unit1472, the egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 retrieves thepacket and provides copies of the packet to the wired egress unit 1434and the wireless egress unit 1436. The wireless egress unit 1426provides the processed packet to the RF transceiver 1476 for wirelesstransmission of the packet and the wired egress unit 1434 provides theprocessed packet to one of the redundancy/backup modules 1432 for wiredtransmission of the packet. Note that the egress sync serial and/orparallel unit 1442 accounts for processing differences, latencydifferences, etc. when it provides the process packet to the wired andwireless egress units 1434-1436 such that the wired and wirelesstransmitted packets reach the destination at approximately the sametime.

In another example of concurrent wired and wireless operation, thewireless communication path is used for separate packet transmissions(e.g., network configuration data, system level data, etc.). In thissituation, the RF transceiver 1476 receives a wireless packet and one ofthe redundancy/backup modules 1432 receives a wired packet. The RFtransceiver 1476 provides the wireless packet to the wireless ingressunit 1440 and the redundancy/backup module 1432 provides the wiredpacket to a wired ingress unit 1438.

The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 retrieves the wiredand wireless packets from the respective ingress units. The ingress syncserial and/or parallel unit 1444 synchronizes the packets, analyzes thepackets, and serially outputs the packets to the packet ingress unit1474. The processing module 1446 retrieves the packets from the packetingress unit 1474 in accordance with their priority and processes thepackets as previously discussed.

The processing module 1446 places the processed packets into the packetegress unit 1472 in accordance with their priority level. When one ofthe processed packets reaches the top of a queue within the packetegress unit 1472, the egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442retrieves the packet and provides it to the wired egress unit 1434 or tothe wireless egress unit 1436. If the wireless egress unit 1436 receivesthe processed packet, it subsequently provides it to the RF transceiver1476 for wireless transmission. If the wired egress unit 1436 receivesthe processed packet, it subsequently provides it to one of theredundancy/backup modules 1432 for wired transmission.

In yet another example of concurrent wired and wireless operation, thewireless and wired communication paths are used for packet aggregation.In this situation, the RF transceiver 1476 receives one packet and oneof the redundancy/backup modules 1432 receives another packet. The RFtransceiver 1476 provides the wireless packet to the wireless ingressunit 1440 and the redundancy/backup module 1432 provides the wiredpacket to a wired ingress unit 1438.

The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 retrieves the wiredand wireless packets from the respective ingress units. The ingress syncserial and/or parallel unit 1444 synchronizes the packets, analyzes thepackets, and serially outputs them to the packet ingress unit 1474. Theprocessing module 1446 retrieves the packets from the packet ingressunit 1474 in accordance with their priority and processes them aspreviously discussed.

The processing module 1446 places the processed packets into the packetegress unit 1472 in accordance with their priority level. When theprocess packets reach the top of a queue within the packet egress unit1472, the egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 retrieves thepackets and provides a wired processed packet to the wired egress unit1434 and a wireless processed packet to the wireless egress unit 1436.The wireless egress unit 1436 provides the wireless processed packet tothe RF transceiver 1476 for wireless transmission and the wired egressunit 1434 provides the wired processed packet to one of theredundancy/backup modules 1432 for wired transmission. Note that theegress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 accounts for processingdifferences, latency differences, etc. when it provides the processedpackets to the wired and wireless egress units such that the wired andwireless transmitted packets reach their respective destinations atapproximately the same time.

FIG. 89 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of egress units, anegress sync serial and/or parallel module 1442, and a packet egress unit1472 of a bridge/routing module. The packet egress unit 1472 includes afirst logical multiplexer 1478, one or more packet egress queues, and asecond logical multiplexer 1480. The egress sync serial and/or parallelunit 1442 includes logical switches 1482 and delay units. The wiredegress unit 1434 includes a wired egress buffer 1484, a switchingcircuit 1486, and a plurality of ports, which are coupled to theplurality of redundancy/backup modules. The wireless egress unit 1436includes a wireless egress buffer 1492, a media access control (MAC)layer module 1490, and a physical layer (PHY) module 1488. The logicalswitches 1482 and/or the logical multiplexers 1478-1480 may each beconstructed of physical switches, gates, multiplexers, sample and holdcircuits, programmable logic circuits, and or a combination thereof.

In an example of operation, the first logical multiplexer 1478 of thepacket egress unit 1472 receives a packet and, based on a control signalfrom a processing module, provides the packet to one of the packetegress queues or to the second logical multiplexer 1480. When the packetreaches the second logical multiplexer 1480 (e.g., directly from thefirst logical multiplexer 1478 or from one of the packet egress queues),it is outputted to the egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442.

Depending on the mode of the bridge-routing module, the egress syncserial and/or parallel module 1442 provides the packet to the wirelessegress unit 1436 and/or to the wired egress unit 1434. The modes of thebridge-router module include wired only, wireless only, concurrenttransmission of the same packet (e.g., for redundancy, backup, fastfailover, etc.), and concurrent transmission of different packets (e.g.,packet aggregation, data segregation, etc.).

When the bridge-routing module is in a wired only mode, the egress syncserial and/or parallel unit 1442 configures the logical switches 1482 toprovide the packet to the wired egress unit 1434 only. In this mode, thewireless logical switch 1482 is opened such that the wireless egressunit 1436 does not receive the wired only packet. The wired egressbuffer 1484 receives the packet and stores it in one of its queues (mayonly have one queue) in accordance with the priority of the packet. Whenthe packet reaches the front of the queue, the switching circuit 1486routes the packet to the appropriate port.

When the bridge-routing module is in a wireless only mode, the egresssync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 configures the logical switches1482 to provide the packet to the wireless egress unit 1436 only. Inthis mode, the wired logical switch 1482 is opened such that the wiredegress unit 1434 does not receive the wireless only packet. The wirelessegress buffer 1436 receives the packet and stores it in one of itsqueues (may only have one queue) in accordance with the priority of thepacket. When the packet reaches the front of the queue, the MAC module1490 performs MAC layer functions and the physical layer module 1488performs PHY functions on the packet in accordance with the one or morewireless communication protocols to produce one or more outbound symbolstreams.

For example, the MAC 1490 and/or PHY modules 1488 convert outbound data(e.g., voice, text, audio, video, graphics, etc.) into one or moreoutbound symbol streams in accordance with one or more wirelesscommunication standards (e.g., GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, HSUPA, HSDPA, WiMAX,EDGE, GPRS, IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, ZigBee, universal mobiletelecommunications system (UMTS), long term evolution (LTE), IEEE802.16, evolution data optimized (EV-DO), etc.) and/or a proprietarycommunication protocol. Such a conversion includes one or more of:scrambling, puncturing, encoding, interleaving, constellation mapping,modulation, frequency spreading, frequency hopping, beamforming,space-time-block encoding, space-frequency-block encoding, frequency totime domain conversion, and/or digital baseband to intermediatefrequency conversion. Note that the module(s) converts the outbound datainto a single outbound symbol stream for Single Input Single Output(SISO) communications and/or for Multiple Input Single Output (MISO)communications and converts the outbound data into multiple outboundsymbol streams for Single Input Multiple Output (SIMO) and MultipleInput Multiple Output (MIMO) communications.

A transmitter section 1496 of the RF transceiver 1494 converts theoutbound symbol stream(s) into one or more outbound wirelesscommunications signals in accordance with the one or more wirelesscommunication protocols. For example, the transmitter section 1496 maymix the one or more outbound symbol streams with a local oscillation(s)to produce one or more up-converted signals. One or more poweramplifiers and/or power amplifier drivers amplifies the one or moreup-converted signals, which may be RF bandpass filtered, to produce theone or more outbound RF signals. In another embodiment, the transmittersection 1496 includes an oscillator that produces an oscillation. Theoutbound symbol stream(s) provides phase information (e.g., +/−Δθ[phaseshift] and/or θ(t) [phase modulation]) that adjusts the phase of theoscillation to produce a phase adjusted RF signal(s), which istransmitted as the outbound RF signal(s). In another embodiment, theoutbound symbol stream(s) includes amplitude information (e.g., A(t)[amplitude modulation]), which is used to adjust the amplitude of thephase adjusted RF signal(s) to produce the outbound RF signal(s).

In yet another embodiment, the transmitter section 1496 includes anoscillator that produces an oscillation(s). The outbound symbolstream(s) provides frequency information (e.g., +/−Δf [frequency shift]and/or f(t) [frequency modulation]) that adjusts the frequency of theoscillation to produce a frequency adjusted RF signal(s), which istransmitted as the outbound RF signal(s). In another embodiment, theoutbound symbol stream(s) includes amplitude information, which is usedto adjust the amplitude of the frequency adjusted RF signal(s) toproduce the outbound RF signal(s). In a further embodiment, thetransmitter section 1496 includes an oscillator that produces anoscillation(s). The outbound symbol stream(s) provides amplitudeinformation (e.g., +/−ΔA [amplitude shift] and/or A(t) [amplitudemodulation) that adjusts the amplitude of the oscillation(s) to producethe outbound RF signal(s).

When the bridge-routing module is in a concurrent transmission of thesame packet mode, the egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442configures the logical switches 1482 as shown. In this instance, thecenter tap of the wireless logical switch 1482 is active as is thecenter tap of the wired logical switch. The center tap of the wiredlogical switch 1482 is coupled to one or more delay modules. Forexample, one delay module may be used to account for latencydifferences, processing differences, transmission speed differences,etc. between transmitting a packet wirelessly and transmitting thepacket via wired means. Another delay may be used to account for thelatency differences, processing differences, reception differences, etc.between receiving a packet wirelessly and receiving a packet via wiredmeans.

The delay modules may be dynamically calibrated during concurrenttransmission of packets and feedback from modules receiving the packets.Alternatively, the delay modules may be statically calibrated at theboot-up of the network fabric, at reset of the network fabric, and/or asthe network manager may determine.

The egress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 provides the redundantpackets to the wired egress buffer 1434 and to the wireless egressbuffer 1436 in a synchronized manner such that the wired packet and thewireless packet are transmitted at substantially the same time. Thewireless egress unit 1436 and the wired egress unit 1434 process theirrespective packets as previously discussed.

When the bridge-routing module is in a concurrent transmission ofdifferent packets mode, the second logical multiplexer 1480 of thepacket egress unit 1472 outputs two packets concurrently. The egresssync serial and/or parallel unit 1442 provides one of the packets to thewireless logical switch 1482 as shown and the other packet to the wiredlogical switch 1482 as shown. The respective packets are provided to thewireless egress unit 1482 and wired egress unit 1434 for substantiallyconcurrent transmission.

FIG. 90 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of ingress units, aningress sync module 1444, and a packet ingress unit 1474 of abridge/routing module. The wireless ingress unit 1440 includes aphysical layer module (PHY) 1498, a media access control layer module(MAC) 1500, and a wireless ingress buffer 1502. The wired ingress unit1440 includes a plurality of ports, a switching circuit 1504, and awired ingress buffer 1506. The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit1444 includes logical switches 1508 and one or more delay modules. Thepacket ingress unit 1474 includes a first logical multiplexer 1512, oneor more packet ingress queues, and a second logical multiplexer 1510.

Depending on the mode of the bridge-routing module, the wireless ingressunit 1440 and/or to the wired ingress unit 1438 will receive one or moreincoming packets. The modes of the bridge-router module includes wiredonly, wireless only, concurrent transmission of the same packet (e.g.,for redundancy, backup, fast failover, etc.), and concurrenttransmission of different packets (e.g., packet aggregation, datasegregation, etc.).

When the bridge-routing module is in a wired only mode, the wiredingress unit 1438 receives an incoming packet via one of its ports andthe wireless ingress unit 1440 is inactive (which may result from beingdisabled or from not receiving a wireless incoming packet). Theswitching circuit 1508 provides the incoming packet to the wired ingressbuffer 1506, which stores the packet in a queue based on the packet'spriority and a prioritization scheme.

The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 configures the logicalswitches such that the wireless logical switch 1508 is open and thewired logical switch 1508 is closed to the wired only tap. In thisconfiguration, the first logical multiplexer 1512 of the packet ingressunit 1474 receives the wired only incoming packet and provides it to oneof the packet ingress queues. The packet ingress queue stores theincoming packet based on its priority and a prioritization scheme. Whenthe packet reaches the front of the queue, it is provided to the secondlogical multiplexer 1510, which transmits the packet to the processingmodule or to another module within the bridge-routing module.

When the bridge-routing module is in a wireless only mode, the wirelessingress unit 1440 is active and the wired ingress unit 1438 is in active(e.g., disable or just not receiving a packet). In this mode, a receiversection 1514 of the RF transceiver converts one or more inbound RFsignals into one or more inbound wireless symbol streams. For example,the receiver section 1514 amplifies the one or more inbound RF signalsto produce one or more amplified inbound RF signals. The receiversection 1514 then mix in-phase (I) and quadrature (Q) components of theamplified inbound RF signal(s) with in-phase and quadrature componentsof a local oscillation(s) to produce one or more sets of a mixed Isignal and a mixed Q signal. Each of the mixed I and Q signals arecombined to produce one or more inbound symbol streams. In one example,each of the one or more inbound symbol streams may include phaseinformation (e.g., +/−Δθ[phase shift] and/or θ(t) [phase modulation])and/or frequency information (e.g., +/−Δf [frequency shift] and/or f(t)[frequency modulation]). In another example and/or in furtherance of thepreceding example, the inbound RF signal(s) includes amplitudeinformation (e.g., +/−ΔA [amplitude shift] and/or A(t) [amplitudemodulation]). To recover the amplitude information, the receiver section1514 includes an amplitude detector such as an envelope detector, a lowpass filter, etc.

The wireless ingress buffer 1440 receives the one or more inbound symbolstreams. The physical layer module performs 1498 PHY functions and theMAC module 1500 performs MAC layer functions on the one or more outboundsymbol streams in accordance one or more wireless communicationprotocols to produce one or more inbound wireless packets. For example,one or more of the MAC 1500 and PHY modules 1498 convert the one or moreinbound symbol streams into inbound data (e.g., voice, text, audio,video, graphics, etc.) in accordance with one or more wirelesscommunication standards (e.g., GSM, CDMA, WCDMA, HSUPA, HSDPA, WiMAX,EDGE, GPRS, IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth, ZigBee, universal mobiletelecommunications system (UMTS), long term evolution (LTE), IEEE802.16, evolution data optimized (EV-DO), etc.). Such a conversion mayinclude one or more of: digital intermediate frequency to basebandconversion, time to frequency domain conversion, space-time-blockdecoding, space-frequency-block decoding, demodulation, frequency spreaddecoding, frequency hopping decoding, beamforming decoding,constellation demapping, deinterleaving, decoding, depuncturing, and/ordescrambling. Note that the processing module converts a single inboundsymbol stream into the inbound data for Single Input Single Output(SISO) communications and/or for Multiple Input Single Output (MISO)communications and converts the multiple inbound symbol streams into theinbound data for Single Input Multiple Output (SIMO) and Multiple InputMultiple Output (MIMO) communications.

The packet(s) are provided to the wireless ingress buffer 1502 fortemporary storage in one of its queues (may only have one queue) inaccordance with the priority of the packet and a prioritization scheme.When the packet reaches the front of the queue, it is provided to theingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444, which provides the packetto the first logical multiplexer 1512 of the packet ingress unit 1474.

When the bridge-routing module is in a concurrent transmit of the samepacket mode, the wireless ingress unit 1440 receives a wireless versionof the packet and the wired ingress unit 1438 receives a wired versionof the packet. Each of the wireless and wired ingress units 1440-1438processes the incoming packet as previously discussed and provides themto the ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444.

In this mode, the ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444configures the logical switches 1508 to receive the wired and wirelessversion of the incoming packet. The ingress sync serial and/or parallelunit 1444 may provide the wired and wireless versions of the incomingpacket to the packet ingress unit 1474 such that the processing modulemay select which packet will be further processed. Alternatively, theingress serial and parallel unit 1444 may include processing to analyzethe wired and wireless versions of the packet to determine which packetto provide to the packet ingress unit 1474. In addition, processingwithin the ingress serial and/or processing unit 1444 may furtherperform error correction, etc. Note that the wired version of the packetmay traverse one or more delay modules such as that the wired andwireless versions of the packet are substantially in sync.

When the bridge-routing module is in a concurrent transmit of thedifferent packets mode, the wireless ingress unit 1440 receives awireless packet and the wired ingress unit 1438 receives a wired packet.Each of the wireless and wired ingress units 1440-1438 processes theirrespective incoming packet as previously discussed and provides them tothe ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444.

In this mode, the ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444configures the logical switches 1508 to receive the wired and wirelesspackets. The ingress sync serial and/or parallel unit 1444 provides thewired and wireless packets to the packet ingress. The first logicalmultiplexer 1512 provides the wired and wireless packets serially or inparallel to one or more of the packet ingress queues. Once the packetsare in an ingress queue, they are processed as previously discussed.Note that the wired packet may traverse one or more delay modules suchas that the wired and wireless packets are substantially in sync.

FIG. 91 is a diagram of an example of frequency bands and channels of avehicular communication network. As shown, a frequency band may includemultiple channels and may be a 2.4 GHz frequency band, a 5 GHz,frequency band, 60 GHz frequency, or some other frequency band. Each ofthe channels of a frequency band may be used to support transmission ofa wireless packet and may be allocated in a cellular pattern to avoidoverlapping frequencies. For example, different channels may be used toconcurrently transmit multiple wireless packets. As another example,channels may be temporarily or permanently allocated for particulartypes of packets (e.g., mission critical, network data, vehicleoperation, information-entertainment, etc.). As yet another example,channels may be temporarily or permanently allocated to a particulardevice (e.g., engine control unit, etc.).

FIG. 92 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for wired andwireless packet processing within a vehicular communication network thatmay be performed by bridge-routing module. The method begins byreceiving one or more packets via the wireless egress unit and/or thewired egress unit 1518. The method continues by determining the mode forthe packet, or packets (i.e., the mode of the bridge-routing module)1520. The mode may be wireless only, wired only, concurrent transmissionof the same packet, or concurrent transmission of different packets.

The method continues by determining whether the wireless link is beingused in a link aggregation mode (i.e., for concurrent transmission ofdifferent packets) 1522. If yes, the method continues by determiningwhether there is a cable failure of a wired link 1524. If not, themethod continues by a preparing the different packets for concurrenttransmission on the wired link and on the wireless link 1526.

If a cable failure has occurred, the method continues by determiningwhether a wired hot standby is used for the wired link 1528. If not, themethod continues by switching to a wireless only mode and retransmittingany packets that were lost due to the cable failure 1530. If wired hotstandby is being used, the method continues by using replicated wiredtransmission for the failed cable such that a packet is not lost 1532.The method continues by setting up a new hot standby for an active wiredlink and reestablishing a link aggregation between the wireless link andthe wired link 1534.

If the wireless link is not being used for link aggregation, the methodcontinues by determining whether the wireless link is being used aswireless hot standby 1536. If so, the method continues by determiningwhether a cable failure has occurred 1538. If not, the method continuesby concurrent transmission of the same packet via the wired link and thewireless link 1540. If, however, a cable failure has occurred, themethod continues by transmitting the packet wirelessly 1542. The methodcontinues by setting up a new wired link and resuming the wireless hotstandby for the new wired link 1544. In this manner, the wireless linkis used for hot standby and the wired link is used as the primarycommunication path.

If the wireless link is not being used for wireless hot standby, themethod continues by determining whether the wireless link is being usedfor network data, system data, and/or network control data 1546. If yes,the method continues by wirelessly transmitting packets of control data,network data, and or system data 1548. If not, the method continues bytransmitting packets in a wired manner only 1550.

FIG. 93 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a switch module1552 that includes an RF transceiver 1554, a wireless unit 1556, aredundancy/backup module 1558, a buffer 1560, a sink serial and/orparallel unit 1562, a switching circuit 1564, a plurality of portbuffers 1566, a plurality of ports 1568, a processing module 1570, andmemory 1572. The processing module 1570 may be configured to implement alocal network management function 1574, a layer 2 switching function1576, a layer 3 switching function 1578, a layer 4 switching function1580, and or a multilayer switching function 1582. The memory 1572 maystore one or more databases, such as a switching database 1584, networkprotocol database 1586, information-entertainment database 1588, vehicleoperations database 1590, mission-critical database 1592, and apredetermined network topologies database 1594. Each of the ports 1568is coupled to a corresponding network node module, the redundancy/backupmodule 1558 is coupled to a bridge-routing module 1558, and the RFtransceiver 1554 is operable to communicate with a bridge-routing module1558 and/or a network node module.

The switch module 1552 operates in one of four modes: wired only,wireless only, concurrent transmission of the same packet, andconcurrent transmission of different packets. When the switch module1552 is in a wired only mode, the RF transceiver 1554 and wireless unitsare in active. In this mode, the switch module 1552 functions aspreviously described with reference to FIGS. 33-36.

When the switch module 1552 is in a wireless only mode, the RFtransceiver 1554 and a wireless unit are active and of theredundancy/backup module 1558 and buffer are inactive. In a firstversion of the wireless only mode, the ports 1568 and buffers 1566 areactive to transceive packets with the corresponding network nodemodules. In a second version of the wireless only mode, the ports 1568and buffers 1566 are in active such that the switch module 1552communicates with the network node modules via the RF transceiver 1554.

When the switch module 1552 is in the concurrent transmission of thesame packet mode or is in the concurrent transmission of differentpackets mode, the RF transceiver 1554, the wireless unit 1556, theredundancy/backup module 1558, and the buffer 1566 are active. In thesemodes, the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 synchronizestransmission and reception of concurrent packets and coordinates theconcurrent transmission of the same packet and concurrent transmissionof different packets.

FIG. 94 is a schematic diagram of the RF transceiver 1554, the wirelessunit 1556, the buffer 1560, and the sync serial and/or parallel unit1562 of a switch module. The sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562includes ingress logical switches 1598, egress logical switches 1596,ingress delay units, and egress delay units. The wireless unit 1556includes a wireless buffer 1600, a MAC layer module 1602, and a PHYlayer module 1604.

For an outbound packet when the switch module is in a wired only mode,the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 configures the logicalswitches 1596 to provide the packet it received from the switchingcircuit to the buffer 1560 only. In this mode, the wireless logicalswitch is open such that the wireless unit 1556 does not receive thewired only packet. The buffer 1560 receives the packet and stores it inone of its queues (may only have one queue) in accordance with thepriority of the packet. When the packet reaches the front of the queue,the buffer 1560 routes the packet to the redundancy/backup module.

For an inbound packet when the switch module is in a wired only mode,the buffer 1560 receives an incoming packet from the redundancy/backupmodule and the wireless unit 1556 is inactive (which may result frombeing disabled or from not receiving a wireless incoming packet). Thesync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 configures the logical switches1598 such that the wireless logical switch is open and the wired logicalswitch is closed to the wired only tap. In this configuration, when thepacket reaches the front of the queue of the buffer 1560, it is providedto the switching circuit for routing to the appropriate port.

For an outbound packet when the switch module is in a wireless onlymode, the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 configures the logicalswitches 1596 to provide the packet to the wireless unit 1556 only. Inthis mode, the wired logical switch is opened such that the buffer 1560does not receive the wireless only packet. The wireless buffer 1600 ofthe wireless unit 1556 receives the packet and stores it in one of itsqueues (may only have one queue) in accordance with the priority of thepacket. When the packet reaches the front of the queue, the MAC module1602 performs MAC layer functions and the physical layer module 1604performs PHY functions on the packet in accordance with the one or morewireless communication protocols to produce one or more outbound symbolstreams, which are provided to the RF transceiver 1554.

For an inbound packet when the switch module is in a wireless only mode,the wireless unit 1556 is active and the buffer 1560 is inactive (e.g.,disable or just not receiving a packet). In this mode, a receiversection of the RF transceiver 1554 converts one or more inbound RFsignals into one or more inbound wireless symbol streams, which areprovided to the wireless unit 1556. The physical layer module 1604performs PHY functions and the MAC module 1602 performs MAC layerfunctions on the one or more outbound symbol streams in accordance oneor more wireless communication protocols to produce one or more inboundwireless packets.

The inbound wireless packet(s) are provided to the wireless buffer 1600for temporary storage in one of its queues (may only have one queue) inaccordance with the priority of the packet and a prioritization scheme.When the packet reaches the front of the queue, it is provided to thesync serial and/or parallel unit 1562, which provides the packet to theswitching circuit for routing to an appropriate port.

For an outbound packet when the switch module is in a concurrenttransmission of the same packet mode, the sync serial and/or parallelunit 1562 configures the logical switches 1596 as shown. In thisinstance, the center tap of the outbound wireless logical switch isactive as is the center tap of the outbound wired logical switch. Thecenter tap of the wired logical switch is coupled to one or more delaymodules. For example, one delay module may be used to account forlatency differences, processing differences, transmission speeddifferences, etc. between transmitting a packet wirelessly andtransmitting the packet via wired means. Another delay may be used toaccount for the latency differences, processing differences, receptiondifferences, etc. between receiving a packet wirelessly and receiving apacket via wired means.

The sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 provides the redundant packetsto the buffer 1560 and to the wireless buffer 1600 of the wireless unit1556 in a synchronized manner such that the wired packet and thewireless packet are transmitted at substantially the same time. Thewireless unit 1556 and the buffer 1560 process their respective packetsas previously discussed.

For an inbound packet when the switch module is in a concurrent transmitof the same packet mode, the wireless unit 1556 receives a wirelessversion of the packet and the buffer 1560 receives a wired version ofthe packet. Each processes the incoming packet as previously discussedand provides them to the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562.

In this mode, the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 configures thelogical switches 1598 to receive the wired and wireless version of theincoming packet. The sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 may providethe wired and wireless versions of the incoming packet to processingmodule to select which packet will be further processed. Alternatively,the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 may include processing toanalyze the wired and wireless versions of the packet to determine whichpacket to provide to the switching circuit. In addition, processingwithin the serial and/or processing unit 1562 may further perform errorcorrection, etc. Note that the wired version of the packet may traverseone or more delay modules such that the wired and wireless versions ofthe packet are substantially in sync.

For an outbound packet when the switch module is in a concurrenttransmission of different packets mode, the sync serial and/or parallelunit 1562 receives two packets from the switching circuit and providesone of the packets to the wireless logical switch 1596 as shown and theother packet to the wired logical switch as shown. The respectivepackets are provided to the wireless unit 1556 and buffer 1560 forsubstantially concurrent transmission.

For an inbound packet when the switch module is in a concurrent transmitof the different packets mode, the wireless unit 1556 receives awireless packet and the buffer 1560 receives a wired packet. Eachprocesses their respective incoming packet as previously discussed andprovides them to the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562.

In this mode, the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 configures thelogical switches 1598 to receive the wired and wireless packets. Thesync serial and/or parallel unit 1562 provides the wired and wirelesspackets to the switching circuit, which provides the packets to theappropriate ports. Note that the wired packet may traverse one or moredelay modules such as that the wired and wireless packets aresubstantially in sync.

FIG. 95 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule 390 that includes a network port 1606, a network buffer 732, async serial and/or parallel unit (i.e., a wired-wireless module) 1608, awireless communication module (which includes a wireless unit 1610 andan RF transceiver 1612), a switching circuit 730, a processing module734, a plurality of device buffers 728, and a plurality of ports 726that is each coupled to a vehicle device 750 or a vehicle module 752.The processing module 734 is configured to perform a local networkmanagement function 738. The memory 736 stores one or more databasesincluding a data input/output database 740, network protocol database742, an information-entertainment database 744, a vehicle operationsdatabase 746, and a mission-critical database 748.

The network node module 390 operates in one of four modes: wired only,wireless only, concurrent transmission of the same packet, andconcurrent transmission of different packets. When the network nodemodule 390 is in a wired only mode, the RF transceiver 1612 and wirelessunits 1610 are inactive. In this mode, the network node module 390functions as previously described with reference to one or more of FIGS.41-57.

When the network node module 390 is in a wireless only mode, the RFtransceiver 1612 and a wireless unit 1610 are active and of the networkport 1606 and buffer 732 are inactive. In a first version of thewireless only mode, the ports 726 and buffers 728 are active totransceive packets with the corresponding vehicle devices 750 and/orvehicle modules 752. In a second version of the wireless only mode, theports 726 and buffers 728 are inactive such that the network node module390 communicates with the vehicle devices 750 and/or vehicle modules 752via the RF transceiver 1612.

When the network node module 390 is in the concurrent transmission ofthe same packet mode or is in the concurrent transmission of differentpackets mode, the RF transceiver 1612, the wireless unit 1610, thenetwork port 1606, and the buffer 732 are active. In these modes, thesync serial and/or parallel unit 1608 synchronizes transmission andreception of concurrent packets and coordinates the concurrenttransmission of the same packet and concurrent transmission of differentpackets.

In the various modes of the network node module 390, the sync serialand/or parallel module 1608, the buffer 732, the wireless unit 1610, theRF transceiver 1612, the switching circuit 730, the processing module734, the port buffers 728, and the ports 726 function similarly tolike-named components of the switch module and/or bridge-routing module.

FIG. 96 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule 390 that includes a network interface 762 and may further includeone or more of: a sensor 758 & an ADC 760; an actuator 766 & a DAC 768;and an electronic control unit (ECU) 770. The network interface 762includes a network transceiver 1614, protocol controller 1616,processing module 1618, buffer 1620, sync serial and/or parallel unit1622, wireless unit 1624, and an RF transceiver 1626.

The network interface 762 of the network node module 390 operates in oneof four modes: wired only, wireless only, concurrent transmission of thesame packet, and concurrent transmission of different packets. When thenetwork interface 762 is in a wired only mode, the RF transceiver 1626and wireless units 1624 are inactive. In this mode, the networkinterface 762 functions as previously described with reference to one ormore of FIGS. 43-45 and 67.

When the network interface 762 is in a wireless only mode, the RFtransceiver 1626 and a wireless unit 1624 are active and the networktransceiver 1614 and buffer 1620 are inactive. In this mode, the syncserial and/or parallel unit 1622 provides packets between the wirelessunit 1624 and the one or more devices.

When the network interface 762 is in the concurrent transmission of thesame packet mode or is in the concurrent transmission of differentpackets mode, the RF transceiver 1626, the wireless unit 1624, thenetwork transceiver 1614, and the buffer 1620 are active. In thesemodes, the sync serial and/or parallel unit 1622 synchronizestransmission and reception of concurrent packets and coordinates theconcurrent transmission of the same packet and concurrent transmissionof different packets.

In the various modes of the network interface 762, the sync serialand/or parallel module 1622, the buffer 1620, the wireless unit 1624,the RF transceiver 1626, the switching circuit, and the processingmodule 1618 function similarly to like-named components of the switchmodule and/or bridge-routing module.

FIG. 97 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a network nodemodule 390 that includes a network interface 762 and may further includeone or more of: a sensor 758 & an ADC 760; an actuator 766 & a DAC 768;and an electronic control unit (ECU) 770. The network interface 762includes a power harvesting module 1628, a wireless unit 1624, and an RFtransceiver 1626.

The power harvesting module 1628 may include a power source (e.g.,battery, solar panel, etc.) and circuitry to harvest power from light,heat, radio frequency signals, motion, etc. The circuitry of the powerharvesting module 1628 generates one or more supply voltages 1630 thatpowers the other components of the network node module 390 and may beused to recharge the power source. With such a power harvesting module1628, the network node module 390 does not require an external powersource. As such, the network node module 390 may be placed within thevehicle where it is difficult, impractical, or impossible to routewires. For example, the network node module 390 they be placed on ablade of a fan, on gears of the transmission, etc.

The wireless unit 1624 and the RF transceiver 1626 function aspreviously described to transmit outbound packets and to receive inboundpackets. Note that if the network node module 390 only includes a sensor758, the RF transceiver 1626 may be replaced with an RF receiver.Further note that if a network node module 390 only includes an actuator766, the RF transceiver 1626 may be replaced with an RF transmitter.

FIG. 98 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a wireless networkfabric of a vehicular communication network that includes a plurality ofbridge-routing modules 1632, a plurality of switch modules 1634, aplurality of waveguides 1636, and may further include one or moreflexible waveguide couplers 1638. Each of the switch modules 1634 andbridge-routing modules 1632 includes one or more antennas 1640. Each ofthe antennas 1640 may be physically located proximal to a waveguide1636.

A waveguide 1636 may be composed of a conductive metal (e.g., copper,aluminum, gold, etc.) and have a geometric shape (e.g., circular tube,square tube, rectangular tube, oval tube, etc.). Alternatively, awaveguide 1636 may be composed of a non-conductive material (e.g.,plastic, etc.) having an internal metal coating. Note that the waveguide1636 is shown to be substantially linear, but may include a slight bend(e.g., up to 45°) to accommodate physical constraints of the vehicle.Further note that the waveguide 1636 may include multiple waveguidesections coupled together.

The flexible waveguide coupler 1638 may be a flexible microstripfabricated on a flexible substrate (e.g., Kapton substrate).Alternatively, or in addition, the flexible microstrip includes acoplanar waveguide fabricated on a flexible substrate.

In an example of operation, the RF transceivers within the variousmodules utilize carrier frequencies in the 60 GHz frequency band.Accordingly, the waveguides 1636 are tuned up for 60 GHz operation. Thewaveguides 1636 may be positioned throughout the vehicle to supportwireless communications between the various modules of the vehiclecommunication network. For example, a waveguide 1636 may run the lengthof the floor of the vehicle (and may include repeaters to boost signalstrength), may be in a door, may be in the roof, may be in a fender, maybe in the hood, may be in the trunk, etc.

FIG. 99 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle component1642 having one or more integrated waveguides 1644. For example, thevehicle components 1642 may be a door, a hood, a roof, a fender, abumper, a floorboard, a dashboard, etc. The one or more integratedwaveguides 1644 has a particular geometry based on the frequency band ofoperation as discussed with reference to FIG. 99.

FIG. 100 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multimediaprocessing system within a vehicle. The multimedia processing systemincludes, in part, the network fabric (vehicular communication network)1646, a GPS processing unit 1648, the network manager 1650, one or moreprocessing modules (e.g., processing modules 44 from FIG. 3, processingmodules 274 from FIGS. 10 and 11 and/or multimedia processing modules134 from FIGS. 6, 10 and 11), a first communication interface 1654 thatprovides a wireless (or wireline) connection to a mobile device 1678,memory device 1652, a second communication interface 1656 that providesa wireless (or wireline) connection to a remote server 1680, a videodecoder 1658, a graphics engine 1660, one or more displays 1662, one ormore cameras (camera #1 . . . camera #n), a pre-processing module 1664,a compositor 1666, an audio decoder 1668, an audio-video encoder andmultiplexer 1670, one or more audio devices (e.g., speakers) 1672, andone or more rear seat entertainment units that each include a respectiveclient processing unit (client #1 . . . client #n), a respective rearseat display 1674, and a respective headphone jack 1676. The videodecoding module 1658, the graphics engine 1660, the preprocessing module1664, the compositor 1666, the audio decoding module 1668, and theaudio/video encoding module 1670 constitute a head end unit within thevehicle.

At any given time within a vehicle, one or more displays 1662 and 1674may be displaying video data produced from one or more video sources.Examples of video sources include, but are not limited to, the GPSprocessing unit 1684, the memory device 1652, a remote device (e.g.,mobile device 1678 or remote server 1680), one or more cameras and oneor more rear seat entertainment units. For example, one or more displays1662 and 1674 may be displaying video produced by the GPS processingunit 1648, video captured by one or more of the cameras, playback of anaudio/video file, playback of a videogame, etc. Because of this diverseand almost constant display of video, the vehicle communication systemallocates a certain amount of bandwidth to support displaying video.

For example, if the network fabric 1646 is constructed in a manner asdiscussed with reference to FIGS. 13-57 (e.g., wired connections only),the processing of packets ensures that a video display is not starvedfor video data (e.g., does not have to repeat a frame) unless thevehicle is in a critical safety state. As another example, if thenetwork fabric 1646 is constructed in a manner as discussed withreference to FIGS. 87-99, a combination of wired and wirelessconnections may be used to provide video data to one or more of thevideo displays 1662 and 1674. As a specific example, the head end unitmay communicate video data for playback using a wired connection to thedisplay 1662 and a wireless connection to the rear seat entertainmentunits. As another specific example, the head end unit may retrieve videodata for processing using a wired connection from the cameras, memory1652, rear seat entertainment units, and/or GPS processing unit 1648 anda wireless connection from the mobile device 1678 and remote server1680. It should be noted that a wireless connection could also be usedto enable the head end unit to retrieve video data for processing fromthe cameras and rear seat entertainment units. In addition, it should benoted that a wireline connection could also be used to enable the headend unit to retrieve video data for processing from the mobile device1678 and remote server 1680. Furthermore, it should be noted that thehead end unit could communicate video data for playback to the rear seatentertainment units using a wireline connection and to the display 1662using a wireless connection.

In an example of operation, when or more of the cameras provides a videostream to the pre-processing module 1664, the pre-processing module 1664may perform one or more of the following video functions: video signalformat conversion between standard definition, high-definition Blu-Ray,component video, composite video, interlaced video, progressive video,and/or the number of lines (e.g., 1080i, or 1080p, etc.); digital videoprocessing that includes rounding considerations (e.g., truncation,conventional rounding, error feedback rounding, dynamic rounding),standard definition and high-definition transformations, displayenhancements (e.g., hue, contrast, brightness, saturation, colortransient improvement, sharpness), video mixing, graphic overlayprocessing, luma and chroma keying, video scaling (e.g., pixel droppingand/or duplication, linear interpolation, anti-aliasing resampling),scan rate conversion (e.g., frame or field dropping and/or duplication,temporal interpolation, motion compression), non-interlaced tointerlaced conversion (e.g., scan line decimation, vertical filtering),interlaced to non-interlaced conversion (e.g., intra-field processing,inter-field processing, frequency response consideration), videocompression (e.g., DCT, quantization, zig zag scanning, run lengthcoding, variable length coding, etc.); NTSC, PAL, and/or SECAMprocessing; H.261 processing; H.263 processing; H.264 processing; MPEGencoding, decoding, compression, and decompression.

The pre-processing module 1664 provides the pre-processed video streamof one or more cameras to the compositor 1666. The compositor 1666combines the preprocessed video stream(s) with video graphics providedby the graphics engine 1660 or GPS navigation video and/or other videoprovided by the video decoder 1658 under the control of a multimediafunction being performed by one or more of the processing modules. Forexample, the graphics engine 1660 may generate a video graphics overlaythat is multiplexed with the pre-processed video stream of one or moreof the cameras. The compositor 1666 provides its output to theaudio/video (A/V) encoder 1670.

The A/V encoder 1670 may perform one or more of the above mentionedvideo functions to render an encoded video file of the video stream ofone or more of the cameras (with or without a graphic overlay and/orwith or without mixing with video from the video decoding module 1658).The video file may be stored in memory 1652, sent to one or more of therear seat entertainment units for playback on the corresponding display1674 and headphone jacks 1676, and/or provided to the video decoder 1658and audio decoder 1668 for playback on the vehicle display 1662 andspeakers 1672.

In another example of operation, the GPS processing module 1648 providesnavigation video data to the video decoder 1658. The video decoder 1658performs one or more of the above mentioned video functions to produce adecoded version of the GPS navigation video data. The video decoder 1658provides the decoded GPS navigation video data to the display 1662 forpresentation to occupants of the vehicle and may further provide thedecoded GPS navigation video data to the compositor 1666 for combiningwith a video graphics overlay from the graphics engine 1660 and/orpre-processing video from the pre-processing module 1664 to produce anenhanced GPS video stream. Note that the enhanced GPS video stream maybe processed by the A/V encoder 1670 to produce a corresponding videofile that may be stored in memory 1652, decoded via the video decoder1658 for presentation on the display 1662 and/or provided to one or moreof the client modules of the rear entertainment units.

In yet another example of operation, the video decoder 1658 and audiodecoder 1668 may retrieve an audio-video file from memory 1652 and/orfrom the mobile device 1678, remote server 1680 or one of the rear seatentertainment units. The video decoder 1658 performs one or more of theabove mentioned video functions to decode the video portion of theaudio-video file and the audio decoder 1668 performs one or more offormat conversion, decompression, etc. to decode the audio portion ofthe audio-video file. In one embodiment, the video decoder 1658 mayfurther provide the decoded video portion to the compositor 1666 forcombining with a video graphics overlay from the graphics engine 1660and/or pre-processing video from the pre-processing module 1664 toproduce an enhanced video stream. The A/V encoder and multiplexer 1670receives the enhanced video stream and decoded audio portion andproduces an encoded A/V stream therefrom that can be stored in memory1652, decoded via the video decoder 1658 and audio decoder 1658 forpresentation on the display 1662 and speakers 1672 and/or provided toone or more of the client modules of the rear entertainment units. Inanother embodiment, the video decoder 1658 provides the decoded videoportion of the audio-video file directly to the display 1662 withoutenhancement for playback thereon, and the audio decoder 1668 providesthe decoded audio portion of the audio-video file to the speakers 1672for playback thereon.

In a further example of operation, the client processing unit of a rearseat entertainment (RSE) unit may retrieve an audio-video file frommemory 1652, from an internal or externally-coupled memory and/or fromthe mobile device 1678 or remote server 1680. The client processing unitmay include its own video decoding module and audio decoding module,where the video decoding module performs one or more of the abovementioned video functions to decode the video portion of the audio-videofile and the audio decoding module performs one or more of formatconversion, decompression, etc. to decode the audio portion of theaudio-video file. The RSE display 1674 presents the decoded videoportion of the audio-video file and the headphone jack 1676 presents thedecoded audio portion of the audio-video file.

FIG. 101 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a multimediaprocessing system within a vehicle. The multimedia processing systemincludes, in part, the network fabric (vehicular communication network)1646, the head end unit 1682, the network manager (shown in FIG. 100),one or more central processing units and/or processing modules(described in more detail in FIG. 100), a first communication interface1654 for providing a wireless (or wireline) connection to mobile device1678, memory 1652, and one or more client processing units (client #1 .. . client #n) of rear seat entertainment units. The head end unit 1682includes one or more video decoders 1658, one or more graphics engines1660, the compositor 1666, the audio decoder 1668, and the audio/videoencoder and multiplexer 1670.

In this embodiment, the client processing units have lower processingcapabilities, video decoding capabilities, video graphics processingcapabilities, and/or audio decoding capabilities than those of the headend unit 1682. As such, when a client processing unit desires to playback a high-resolution audio-video file (e.g., a 3D video or HD video),it is first processed by the head end unit 1682 to produce a lowerresolution audio-video file (e.g., standard definition) for theparticular client. If multiple clients are requesting playback of thesame high-resolution audio-video file, the head end unit 1682 generatesa lower resolution audio-video file for each of the requesting clients.

In an example of operation, a client processing unit (e.g., client #1)includes a graphics engine, a video decoder, and an audio decoder. Inresponse to a request for playback of a high-resolution audio-videofile, the graphics engine of client #1 generates a graphics input thatis transmitted via the network fabric 1646 to a processing module and/orcentral processing unit (CPU) performing a multimedia function. Theprocessing module interprets the graphics input as a request forplayback of the high-resolution audio-video file and retrieves the filefrom memory 1652 and/or from the mobile device 1678 (or other remotedevice) via the communication interface 1654.

The processing module then controls the head end unit 1682 to convertthe high-resolution audio-video file into a lower resolution audio-videofile. In particular, the video decoding module 1658 decodes thehigh-resolution audio-video file and provides it to the audio/videoencoding module 1670 via the compositor 1666. The audio-video encodingmodule 1670 performs one or more of the video functions (e.g., videoscaling, video compression, format conversion, etc.) discussed withreference to FIG. 100 to produce the lower resolution audio-video file.In addition to providing the lower resolution audio-video file to therequesting client, the lower resolution audio-video file may be storedin memory 1652 for subsequent playback by a client without head end unitintervention. Note that the processing module coordinates with thenetwork manager to manage data flow between the head end unit 1682 andthe clients utilizing techniques discussed with reference to FIGS. 28-32and 35.

In another example of operation, one or more of the graphics engines1660 of the head end unit 1682 may process 3-D video graphics that aresubsequently encoded by the audio/video encoding module 1670 to render a2-D video file of the 3-D video graphics. The audio-video encodingmodule 1670 may provide the 2-D video file to memory 1652 for storageand/or to one or more of the client processing modules for display on anRSE display. In this manner, an RSE that does not include sufficientgraphic engine resources to process high-resolution 3-D video graphicsmay nonetheless display high-resolution 3-D video graphics.

FIG. 102 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for processinghigh-resolution video content within a vehicular communication network.The method begins after receiving a request for playback ofhigh-resolution video content (e.g., 3D audio-video file, HD video file,Blu-Ray video file, etc.) from one or more clients 1684. Upon receivingthe request, the high-resolution video content is received (e.g.,retrieved from memory, received from a communication interface, etc.).

The method continues by determining the number of clients requestingplayback of the high resolution video content 1686. If there is only oneclient requesting playback of the high-resolution video content themethod continues by decoding the high-resolution video content toproduce decoded video content 1688. The method continues by determiningwhether the decoded video content will be combined with video graphics1690.

If not, the method continues by encoding 1692 and compressing thedecoded video content to produce a lower resolution video file 1694. Theparticular encoding and compression (and other processing) may be basedon audio/video processing capabilities of the client, display size,display resolution, available bandwidth of the network fabric, etc. Forexample, the conversion of the high-resolution video content to a lowerresolution video content may include converting a HD file to an SD file,scaling the SD file, and compressing the scaled SD file. The methodcontinues by packetizing and segmenting the video file and sending thepackets via the network fabric to the client 1696.

If the decoded video content is to be combined with graphics, the methodcontinues by combining the decoded video content with the video graphicsand then encoding 1698 and compressing the combined video data toproduce a lower resolution video file with graphics 1700. The methodcontinues by packetizing and segmenting the lower resolution video filewith graphics and sending the packets via the network fabric to theclient 1702.

If more than one client has requested playback of the high-resolutionvideo content, the method continues by decoding the high-resolutionvideo content to produce one or more decoded video content streams 1704.For each client, the method continues by determining whether or thedecoded video content will be combined with video graphics 1706. If not,the method continues by encoding 1708 and compressing the decoded videocontent to produce a lower resolution video file 1710. The methodcontinues by packetizing and segmenting the video file and sending thepackets via the network fabric to the client 1712.

If the decoded video content is to be mixed with graphics, the methodcontinues by combining the decoded video content with the video graphicsand then encoding 1714 and compressing the combined video data toproduce a lower resolution video file with graphics 1716. The methodcontinues by packetizing and segmenting the lower resolution video filewith graphics and sending the packets via the network fabric to theclient 1718.

FIGS. 103-105 are example diagrams of an embodiment of processing 3Dvideo within a vehicular communication network. FIG. 103 illustrates thehead end unit 1720 generating three video streams of a 3-D video file.The first stream corresponds to angle one of the three-dimensional videofile; the second video stream corresponds to no angle of thethree-dimensional video file; and the third video stream corresponds toa second angle of the three-dimensional video file. The head end unit1720 provides the three video streams sequentially to the client toreduce processing burdens on the client 1722.

FIG. 104 illustrates an example of the various angles for a given frameof the three-dimensional video file. In this example, a person isrunning where the no angle video data is shown in the middle, the firstangle video data is shown on the left, and the second angle video datais shown on the right. When the three angles of video data are presentedon a screen, glasses-less 3-D imaging is obtained.

FIG. 105 illustrates an example of a frame of 3D video data presented ona client's screen. The screen includes a plurality of pixels, where abox represents one or more pixels, and the pixels may be arranged invideo blocks 1726 of 4×4 pixels, 8×8 pixels, 16×16 pixels etc. As shown,angle one video data is provided in a first column, no angle video datais provided in a second column, and second to video data is provided ina third column. The pattern repeats across the screen of the clientdisplay 1724.

FIG. 106 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of commercial insertionwithin a vehicular communication network. The vehicle communicationsystem includes, in part, the network fabric 1646, a GPS processing unit1648, the network manager 1650, one or more central processing units, acommunication interface 1654, digital storage 1734, a secondcommunication interface 1656, a video decoding module 1658, a graphicsengine 1660, one of more displays 1728, a compositor 1666, an audiodecoding module 1668, an audio-video encoding module 1670, one or morespeakers 1730, and one or more rear seat entertainment units thatincludes a client processing unit, a rear seat display 1736, and aheadphone jack 1738.

In an example of operation, the vehicle may upload to a server via acommunication interface 1654 information regarding the vehicle (e.g.,performance data, fuel level, diagnostic information, etc.), informationregarding the occupants of the vehicle, location of the vehicle, adriver profile, etc. 1740. The server 1732 processes this informationand generates targeted commercial content 1742. For example, if thevehicle is low on gas, the server 1732 may generate commercial content1742 regarding the location of several gas stations. As another example,if the drivers profile indicates a preference for a certain type ofhobby, the server 1732 may generate commercial content 1742 regardingthe hobby.

The server 1732 provides the commercial content 1742 to the vehicle viathe communication interface 1654 (e.g., cellular communicationinterface, satellite communication interface, etc.). Upon receiving thecommercial content 1742, it may be stored in the digital storage 1734for subsequent playback or provided to the video decoding module 1658and/or the audio decoding module 1668 for immediate playback. If thecommercial content 1742 is to be immediately played-back, the videodecoding module 1658 decodes the commercial content 1742 in accordancewith a video processing protocol (e.g., MPEG, JPEG, HTML, etc.) andprovides the decoded commercial content 1742 to the display 1728 and/orto the compositor 1666.

If provided to the compositor 1666, the decoded commercial content 1742may be combined with video graphics provided by the graphics engine1660. While the video decoding module 1658 is decoding the video portionof the commercial content 1742, the audio decoding module 1668 isdecoding the audio portion of the commercial content 1742. The resultingdecoded audio data may be provided to the speaker 1730 and/or to the A/Vencoding module 1670.

The A/V encoding module 1670 combines the decoded audio and the decodedvideo and encodes the combined A/V data to produce an encoded A/V file.The encoded A/V file may be stored in the digital storage 1734 and/orprovided to the one or more of the rear seat entertainment units fordisplay to a rear seat passenger.

FIG. 107 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for commercialinsertion within a vehicular communication network. The method begins bydetermining whether a commercial insertion feature is enabled 1744. Thismay be enabled as a default setting by an automobile manufacturer, maybe part of a satellite service or other wireless service, and/or may bea pay to disable feature of the vehicle. If the commercial insertionfeature is enabled, the method continues by gathering informationregarding the vehicle 1746. Such information may include informationregarding the occupants, the location of the vehicle, a GPS destination,recent searches, stored multimedia content, recent playback ofmultimedia content, video games, etc.

The method continues by sending the information to a server via acommunication interface 1748. The communication interface may providecommunication with a satellite, another vehicle, a cellular network viaa mobile phone interface, a highway wireless network, etc. The methodcontinues by receiving commercial content via the commercial interface1750. The method continues by determining whether the commercial shouldbe presented 1752. Such a determination may be based on the nature ofthe commercial content, user preference settings, availability of theaudio/video resources of the vehicle, etc.

If the commercial content is to be presented, the method continues byprocessing the commercial content for audio and or video display 1754.Such processing may include audio decoding, video decoding, videographic insertion, audio/video encoding and/or compression, etc. If thecommercial content is not to be presented, the method continues bydetermining whether the commercial content should be stored 1756. Such adetermination may be based on the nature of the commercial content, userdefined settings, etc. If the commercial content is not to be stored, itis discarded 1758. If the commercial content is to be stored, it isstored in the digital storage unit 1760.

FIG. 108 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for expandingmemory of a vehicular communication network. The method begins byestablishing a communication link with a mobile device 1762. The mobiledevice may be a cellular telephone, tablet computer, laptop computer,etc. The communication link may be a Bluetooth link, a wireless localarea network link, a femto-cellular telephone mutation link, aproprietary vehicle wireless link, etc. The method continues byexpanding the virtual memory of the vehicle communication system toinclude the memory of the mobile device 1764.

The method continues by determining whether a playback request ofmultimedia data that is stored on the memory of the mobile device isreceived 1766. If not, the method continues by determining whether arequest to store multimedia data on the memory of the mobile device isreceived 1768. If yes, the method continues by processing the request toforward data to the mobile device via the communication link for storagetherein 1770. If a request to store data in the memory of the mobiledevice is not received, the method continues by determining whether thecommunication link is still active 1772. If the link is still active,the method repeats as shown. If the link is not active, the methodrepeats by attempting to reestablish the communication link 1762.

If a playback request of multimedia data stored in the memory of themobile device is received, the method continues by determining whetherthe communication link has sufficient bandwidth to support themultimedia data 1774. If yes, the method continues by downloading themultimedia data in a communication link and processing it for display1776. If, however, the communication link does not have sufficientbandwidth to support the multimedia data, the method continues bydetermining whether additional communication links to the mobile deviceare available 1778. If yes, the method continues by securing one or moreof the available communication links to support the bandwidthrequirements of the multimedia data 1780.

If additional communication links are not available, the methodcontinues by determining whether a lower data rate is possible for themultimedia data 1782. If not, an error results and the multimedia datamay not be played back at this time 1784. If the rate of the multimediadata may be lowered, it is and subsequently downloaded via thecommunication link at the lower rate 1786.

FIG. 109 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for charging ofan electric vehicle. The method begins by determining whether thevehicle is electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle 1788. If neither, themethod is not performed. If the vehicle is an electric or hybrid car,the method continues by determining whether the batteries need charging1790. If yes, the method continues by connecting to a recharge station,which is typically not at the home of the owner of the vehicle 1792. Forexample, the recharge station may be a service station that offersrecharging of an electrical vehicle.

The method continues by utilizing a communication link of the vehiclecommunication network to send a registration packet to a power companyand/or recharge service organization 1794. The method continues byreceiving a login acknowledgment 1796. In response thereto, the methodcontinues by downloading a recharge profile of the user and/or of thevehicle 1798. The recharge profile may indicate a pre-negotiated ratefor recharging the vehicle, accessing a particular account, utilizing aprepaid credit card, etc. The method continues by charging the vehiclein accordance with the downloaded profile 1800.

FIG. 110 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for fuelconsumption optimization of a vehicle. The method begins by determiningwhether fuel optimization information is received via a communicationlink 1802. The fuel optimization information is generated by a serverthat receives information regarding the car's performance, use profile,make of the car, type of gasoline used, general information regardingthe vehicle, etc. Based on this information, the server generatesinformation that may optimize fuel consumption while the vehicle is inuse.

When fuel optimization information is received, the method continues bypresenting a message to the driver regarding fuel optimization 1804. Themethod continues by determining whether the driver has acknowledged thefuel optimization method and desires to adjust the performance of thecar 1806. If not, the method is complete for this particular fueloptimization message. If, however, the driver has provided anacknowledgment, the method continues by adjusting performance of thevehicle based on the fuel optimization information 1808. For example,the fuel optimization information may regulate the speed at which thecar is traveling, may regulate the acceleration of the vehicle, mayadjust fuel mixtures, air intake, etc. to reduce fuel consumption whilestill maintaining an acceptable level of performance.

FIG. 111 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method for fuelconsumption optimization of a vehicle. The method begins by requestingtraffic information and/or road conditions for a known route that thevehicle will be traveling 1810. The request may be to a remote sourcevia one of the communication links of the vehicle communication network.The method continues by determining current driving characteristics ofthe vehicle (e.g., speed, acceleration, braking, and/or other drivingtraits) 1812.

The method continues by determining whether fuel optimization ispossible based on a comparison of the traffic information, roadcondition information, and the current driving characteristics 1814. Forexample, by lowering the speed of the vehicle, a traffic slowdown aheadin the vehicle's route may clear prior to the vehicle arriving therebyreducing fuel consumption and improving the quality of the trip. If fueloptimization is not possible, the method repeats as shown.

If, however, fuel optimization is possible, the method continues bypresenting a message to the driver regarding fuel optimization options1816. The method continues by determining whether the driver hasacknowledged a fuel optimization option 1818. If not, the method repeatsas shown. If yes, the method continues by adjusting performance of thevehicle to optimize fuel consumption 1820.

FIG. 112 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multi-levelpre-processing module 1664 of FIG. 100. The preprocessing module 1664includes a low latency subsampling module 1822, a first level encodingmodule 1824, a second level encoding module 1826, a third level encodingmodule 1828, and a packetizing module 1830.

In an example of operation, one or more cameras (which can be of anytype, including but not limited to, an IP camera, optical camera or IRcamera) provide one or more video streams to the pre-processing module1664. For example, one video stream may be from one camera and/or onecamera type, while another video stream may be from another cameraand/or camera type. The low latency sub-sampling module 1822 samples thevideo stream(s) at a particular rate (e.g., 2N, where N=>1) to produceone or more sub-sampled video streams. For example, if the sampling rateis two, then every other pixel is sampled thereby reducing the size of aframe of the video stream(s). The first level encoding module 1824performs a base layer encoding of one of the sub-sampled video streamsto produce a first level encoded video stream that has low latency andlow quality. In one embodiment, the low latency subsampling module 1822is not included or by-passed to provide a video stream captured in lowresolution from a camera directly to the first level encoding module1824.

The second level encoding module 1826 performs spatial scaling encodingon the same video stream or a different video stream based on the baselayer encoding of the first level encoding module 1824 to produce asecond level encoded video stream. The third level encoding module 1828performs quality scaling encoding on the same video stream or adifferent video stream from the first and/or second level encodingmodules 1824 and 1826 based on the encoding performed by the secondlevel encoding module 1826 to produce a third level encoded videostream. Note that a second subsampling module may be included prior tothe second level encoding module 1826 to reduce latency of producing thesecond encoded video stream.

The packetizing module 1830 receives the three levels of encoded videostreams and packetizes them to produce a single packet stream output. Aprocessing module (not shown) generates a control signal to indicate anencoding mode to the pre-processing module 1664. The pre-processingmodule 1164 enables one or more of the levels of encoding based on theencoding mode. For example, the pre-processing module 1164 may enableone or more of the levels of encoding based on a mode of operation(e.g., a mode of operation of the vehicle, camera(s) and/orpre-processing module 1664), a vehicle status, an availability ofnetwork resources of the vehicular communication network and/or packetcontent. The control signal may further control (e.g., adjust encodedcharacteristics, etc.) the first, second, and/or third level of encodingas well as control (e.g., enable, adjust packetizing characteristics,etc.) the packetizing module 1830. Note that the preprocessing module1664 may include more or less levels of encoding. Further note that oneor more of the layers of encoding may further include compression.

FIG. 113 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a multi-level videodecoder 1658 of a vehicular communication network. The video decoder1658 includes a de-packetizing module 1832, a first level decodingmodule 1834, a second level decoding module 1836, a third level decodingmodule 1838, and a video output module 1840. The first, second, andthird level video decoding modules perform the corresponding videodecoding of the video encoding performed by the first, second, and thirdlevel video encoding modules of the preprocessing module.

As an example of operation, the de-packetizing module 1832 receives thesingle packet stream output of the pre-processing module 1664. Thede-packetizing module 1832 provides first level encoded packets to thefirst level decoding module 1834, provides second level encoded packetsto the second level decoding module 1836, and provides third levelencoded packets to the third level decoding module 1838. Each of thedecoding modules decodes their respective packets to produce respectivefirst, second and third level decoded video signals.

The video output module 1840 may output one, two, or all three of thedecoded video signals to produce a decoded video output based on acontrol signal produced by the processing module (as in FIG. 112). Inaddition to indicating the encoding mode, the control signal may furtherindicate particular one(s) of the levels of decoding to output. Such acontrol signal (encoding mode) may be generated, for example, based onthe packet content. For example, safety related video functions requirelow latency video inputs, which can be of low quality, to perform thecorresponding safety-related operations; thus the video output module1840 may only need to output the first level decoded video signal. Asanother example, the vehicle display and/or one or more of the RSEdisplays can tolerate latency but require a higher quality video input,so the video output module 1840 may output only the second or thirdlevel of decoding. Note that the video provided to an RSE display isfirst processed by the audio/video processing module. Further note thatthe encoding performed by the preprocessing module and the decodingperformed by the video decoder 1658 may include one or more of the videofunctions discussed with reference to FIG. 100. In addition, the controlsignal (encoding mode) may also be generated, for example, based on amode of operation, such that different operation mode(s) may use videofrom different coding layer(s).

FIG. 114 is a diagram of an example of the pre-processing module of FIG.112 performing first level encoding. In this example, a frame of videodata is received, where a square represents a pixel, a block of pixelsetc. The low latencies subsampling module samples the video input (H) toproduce a sub sampled video frame. The darkened squares representpixels, pixel blocks, etc. that were sampled and the white squaresrepresent pixels, pixel blocks etc. that were not sampled. The lowlatency subsampling module provides an H/2 sub-sampled frame of video tothe first level encoding module. The first level encoding module encodesslices of the H/2 frame of video to produce the first level encodedvideo data.

FIG. 115 is a diagram of an example of a low latency video packetorganization as may be outputted by the packetizing module of thepre-processing module. In this example, the packetizing module receivespackets during time intervals over a period of time. During a first timeinterval of the example a first level 1 packet A is received from thefirst level encoding module. At a second time interval, a second level 1packet B is received from the first level encoding module and a firstlevel 2 packet A is received from the second level encoding module. At athird time interval, a third level 1 packet C is received from the firstlevel encoding module and a first level 3 packet A is received from thethird level encoding module. In this example, the first level encodingmodule provides a packet at every time interval, the second levelencoding module provides a packet every other time interval, and thethird level encoding module provides a packet every third time.

The packetizing module outputs the packets in a serial manner withpackets from the first level encoding module having priority over theother encoding modules. As such, in response to the packets receivedduring the first time interval, the packetizing module outputs the firstlevel one packet A (the only one it received). In response to thepackets received during the second time interval, the packetizing moduleoutputs the second level 1 packet B prior to the first level 2 packet A.In response to the packets received during the third time interval, thepacketizing module outputs the third level 1 packet C prior to the firstlevel 3 packet A; and so on.

FIG. 116 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for multi-levelvideo processing. The method begins by determining whether videorecording is enabled 1842. The video recording may be enabled based on auser input, based on sensing a trigger event (putting the car inreverse), etc. If the video recording is enabled, the method continuesby determining an encoding mode based on vehicle status and availabilityof network resources (e.g., bandwidth of the network fabric,availability of processing modules, availability of memory, availabilityof video encoding, availability of video decoding, etc.) 1844.

The method continues by enabling one or more levels of video encoding inthe preprocessing module based on the determined encoding mode 1846. Themethod continues by facilitating handshaking between the video encodingand video decoding in accordance with the enabled encoding mode 1848.The method continues by capturing video, encoding it in accordance withthe encoding mode, and decoding it in accordance with the encoding mode1850. The method continues by determining whether encoding conditionshad changed 1852. If not, the method repeats as shown. If yes, themethod repeats by determining whether video recording is enabled 1850.

FIG. 117 is a diagram of an example of a video safety monitoring module1854 using multi-level video. In this example, a video safety monitoringmodule 1854 receives first level decoded (or encoded) video data 1856and processes it to determine whether criteria for detecting a safetyissue have been met. If a safety issue is detected, the video safetymonitor module 1854 generates and outputs a video detected safety issue(hereinafter referred to as a safety command) 1858. For example, thevehicle safety monitoring module 1854 may be programmed to detect thepotential of a collision using video information and, if a collisionseems imminent, the video safety monitor module 1854 generates one ormore safety commands that may be used to enable automatic evasivemaneuvers, trigger alarms, etc.

FIG. 118 is a diagram of another example of a user display 1860 and/ordriver assist module 1862 using multi-level video. In this example, auser display 1860 and/or a driver assist module 1862 receives secondand/or third level decoded (or encoded) video data 1864. For example,the video data may correspond to video captured by rear cameras of avehicle, where the video data is used for parking assistance.

FIG. 119 is a diagram of an example of processing video contentauthorization in a vehicle network communication system. The vehiclecommunication system includes, in part, the network fabric, a GPSprocessing unit 1648, the network manager 1650, one or more centralprocessing units 1864, a communication interface 1654, memory (storage)1734, a digital rights management (DRM) interface 1866, a video decodingmodule 1658, a graphics engine 1660, one of more displays 1662, one ormore cameras, a pre-processing module 1664, a compositor 1666, an audiodecoding module 1668, an audio-video encoding module 1670, one or morespeakers 1672, and one or more rear seat entertainment units thatincludes a client processing unit, a rear seat display 1674, and aheadphone jack 1676. The video decoding module 1658, the graphics engine1660, the preprocessing module 1664, the compositor 1666, the audiodecoding module 1668, and the audio/video encoding module 1670constitute a head end unit within the vehicle.

In an example of operation, the vehicle downloads video content 1868from a home 1870, where the video content 1868 is copyright protected.In this instance, before playback of the video content 1868 within thevehicle occurs, the vehicle determines whether the occupant(s) of thevehicle are authorized to display the copyrighted video content 1868within the vehicle. To accomplish this, an occupant of the vehicleprovides digital rights management information to the DRM securityinterface 1866. This can be done by using a card that is inserted into aslot within the dashboard of the vehicle, via a wireless communicationbetween a mobile device of an occupant and the DRM security interface1866, etc.

A processing module or CPU 1864 interprets the DRM information receivedfrom the occupant to determine the occupant's rights for displayingcopyrighted video content. When an occupant requests playback of aparticular copyrighted video file, the processing module 1864 determineswhether the copyrighted video file includes a watermark and or unique IDthat corresponds to the DRM information of the occupant. If so, theplayback of the particular copyrighted video file is allowed. If not,the playback is prohibited and a corresponding message may be providedto the occupant.

FIG. 120 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for videocontent authorization processing within a vehicle communication network.The method begins by downloading video data from a home to vehicle 1870.The method continues by determining whether a playback request for thedownloaded video is received 1872. If a playback request is received,the method continues by determining whether the video content includesDRM information that prevents its playback in a vehicle 1874. If thevideo content includes DRM information that prevents playback in thevehicle, the playback request is denied 1876.

If the video content does not include DRM information that prevents invehicle playback, the method continues by accessing video securityinformation of an occupant via a DRM security interface 1878. The videosecurity information may include a watermark, a video ID, accessing athird party service to determine authorization and/or to obtainauthorization, etc. The method continues by determining whether theoccupant has the right to play back this video content 1880. If not, therequest is denied 1876. If so, the playback is enabled 1882.

The method may further include checking DRM information prior to, orduring, download of the video content to determine whether the videocontent may be downloaded to a vehicle. If not, the download request isdenied. If so, the download is enabled.

FIG. 121 is a diagram of an example of resource sharing in a vehiclecommunication network in a distributed system. The system includes avehicle 1884, another vehicle 1886, home 1888, and Internet coupleddevices. Each of the vehicle 1884 and other vehicle 1886 includes thenetwork fabric 1892, processing resources 1894 and 1918 (e.g.,processing modules, CPUs, ECUs, video decoding modules, video encodingmodules, etc.), memory 1896 and 1920, and a gateway 1898. The home 1888includes processing resources 1900 and memory 1902. The Internet coupleddevices include memory 1904, processing resources 1906, servers 1908,automobile meta-factor 1910 or services, and/or automobile repairservices 1912.

In an example of operation, the vehicle 1884 communicates with the home1888, the other vehicle 1886, and/or the Internet 1890 to requestprocessing resources and/or memory to augment, or off-load, processingwithin the vehicle 1884 and/or storage of vehicle data. As a morespecific example, the vehicle 1884 may be in communication with the home1888 and requests access to one or more processing resources 1900 toaugment, or off-load, video processing within the vehicle 1884. In thisspecific example, if the home 1888 has available video processingresources 1900, and the vehicle 1884 is authorized to access them, thehome 1888 may grant access to the processing resources 1900 forco-processing of video data for the vehicle 1884.

As another more specific example, the vehicle 1884 and other vehicle1886 may be traveling on the same road and are within wirelesscommunication range of each other. In this instance, the vehicle 1884requests access to one or more processing resources 1918 of the othervehicle 1886 to augment, or off-load, a process being executed withinthe vehicle 1884 or needing to be executed. The other vehicle 1886receives the request, determines whether the vehicle 1884 is authorizedto access its processing resources 1918 and/or memory 1920, and, if so,determines whether to grant access to the processing resources 1918and/or memory 1920. If access is granted, data is exchanged via awireless communication link between the two vehicles. The health of thelink is continually monitored to ensure that data and processing thereofis accurately communicated between vehicles.

As yet another more specific example, the vehicle 1884 may requestaccess to Internet processing resources 1906 and/or memory 1904 foraugmenting, or offloading, processes within the vehicle and/or storageof vehicle data. In this instance, the vehicle 1884 sends a request viathe cellular network 1914 and/or the highway wireless network 1916 to aservice provider 1912 coupled to the Internet 1890. The service provider1912 receives a request, determines whether the vehicle 1884 isauthorized to access processing resources 1906 and/or memory 1904, and,if so, determines whether to grant access to the processing resources1906 and/or memory 1904. If access is granted, the vehicle 1884 utilizesthe cellular network 1914 and/or highway wireless network 1916 tocommunicate with the allocated processing resources 1906 and/orallocated memory resources 1904.

FIG. 122 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of a method for resourcesharing within a distributed system. The method begins by collectingvehicle data, which may be data from one or more sensors of the vehicle,diagnostic data, performance data, occupant data, etc. 1922. The methodcontinues by determining whether the vehicle network traffic is slow1924. For example, the vehicle network traffic may be slow if the car isnot in use, is in use but parked, and/or at a scheduled time when thecar is typically not in use.

When the network traffic is slow, the method continues by sending thevehicle data to one or more of service providers via the gateway forstorage and/or processing 1926. The method continues by determiningwhether feedback is received (e.g., receiving a message indicatingneeded service, a message regarding recommended service, a messageacknowledging storage, etc.) 1928. If feedback is received, the methodcontinues by processing the feedback (e.g., provide a message to a user,switch to a backup component, etc.) 1930.

FIG. 123 is a logic diagram of another embodiment of a method forresource sharing within a distributed system. The method begins bydetermining whether the vehicle network is linked to an externalprocessing module and/or memory for augmenting, and/or off-loading,processing and/or data storage 1932. If yes, the method continues bydetermining whether to use the external processing module and/or memory1934. If yes, the method continues by requesting to access the resources1936. The method continues by determining whether the request is granted1938. If yes, the method continues by coordinating resource sharing1940.

FIG. 124 is a schematic diagram of an embodiment of a power managementmodule 1942 that includes a network interface 1944, a processing module1946, and memory 1948. The network interface 1944 may connect to thenetwork fabric (vehicular communication network) via a wirelessconnection and/or a wired connection 1950. The memory 1948 stores anetwork topology database 1952, power saving options and correspondingapplications, and a device database 1954.

The device database 1954 includes fields for a device ID 1956, devicepower saving options 1958, network power island ID 1960 (e.g., the powerisland in which the device resides), and power island power savingsoptions 1962. Note that a power island may include two or more vehicledevices and/or vehicle modules. The devices and/or modules within apower island may be related by device type, device function and/ordevice location within the vehicular communication network. For example,as shown in FIG. 10, the left front assembly 286 may be a power island,which includes various devices, such as a left headlight, left blinkerand left sensor.

The device power savings options 1958 for a particular device mayinclude, for example, one or more of: placing the device in a sleepmode, reducing the supply voltage to the device, reducing the clock rateof the device, disabling power to the device, limiting the current tothe device and using a lower power physical layer communication link forthe device. The power island power savings options 1962 for a particularpower island may include, for example, one or more of: placing each ofthe devices in the power island in a sleep mode, reducing the supplyvoltage to each of the devices in the power island, reducing the clockrate of each of the devices in the power island, disabling power to eachof the devices in the power island, limiting the current to each of thedevices of the power island and using a lower power physical layercommunication link for each of the devices in the power island.

For example, device 000 000 is not in a power island and has powersaving options one, three, four, and six. With reference to the powersaving options table, power saving option one corresponds to asleep/wake mode, power saving option two corresponds to a power on/offmode, power saving option three corresponds to reducing a supplyvoltage, power saving option four includes reducing a clock rate, powersaving option five includes current limiting, power saving option sixincludes lowering power of a physical layer communication link, and mayinclude other power saving techniques. As such, device 000 000 may haveits power adjusted by placing it in a sleep mode when inactive (i.e.,power saving option 1), have its supply voltage reduced (i.e., powersaving option 3), have its clock rate reduced (i.e., power saving option4), and/or use a lower power physical layer communication link (i.e.,power saving option 6).

As another example, device 000 001 is in power island 001 and hasindividual power saving options of one, three and four. The power savingoptions for island 001 include power saving options one and two. Assuch, the device 000 001 may be individually controlled for powersavings and/or controlled as part of the power island. Individually, thedevice 000 001 may be placed in a sleep mode when inactive (i.e., powersaving option 1), have its supply voltage reduced (i.e., power savingoption 3), and/or have its clock rate reduced (i.e., power saving option4).

As yet another example, device 000 002 is in power island 001 and hasindividual power saving options of one, three and six. The power savingoptions for island 001 include power saving options one and two. Assuch, the device 000 002 may be individually controlled for powersavings and/or controlled as part of the power island. Individually, thedevice 000 002 may be placed in a sleep mode when inactive (i.e., powersaving option 1), have its supply voltage reduced (i.e., power savingoption 3), and/or use a lower power physical layer communication link(i.e., power saving option 6).

FIG. 125 is a logic diagram of an embodiment of method for powermanagement in a vehicle network communication system that may beperformed by the processing module of the power management module. Themethod begins by selecting a device coupled to the network fabric 1964.The selection may be based on a periodic checking of devices coupled tothe network fabric, monitoring activity of the device, in response to arequest, etc.

The method continues by determining whether to enable power savings forthe particular device 1966. Such a determination may be based on thecurrent state of the device. For example, the current state may be anactive state or an idle state. If in an active state, the current statemay further indicate a present or future operation of the device, suchas the current task being performed by the device, the speed at whichthe task needs to be performed, whether the device is currentlyperforming a task, whether the device will be performing a taskimminently, etc.

If power savings is to be enabled, the method continues by determiningwhether to employ an individual power saving option or a power islandpower saving option 1968. For example, the method may determine whetherthe device belongs to a power island, and if so, determine whether toenable power savings for that power island. If the device does notbelong to a power island, an individual power saving option can beapplied to the device. Likewise, if the device belongs to a powerisland, but power savings do not need to be enabled for the powerisland, an individual power saving option can be applied to the device.For example, the determination of whether power savings need to beenabled for the power island can be based on the current state of one ormore of the device and the power island. As mentioned above, the currentstate may indicate one or more of a present operation or a futureoperation of the device and/or power island. However, if the devicebelongs to a power island and a determination is made that power savingsshould be enabled for that power island, a power island power savingsoption can be applied to the power island.

If an individual power saving option is to be applied, the methodcontinues by selecting and applying the individual power saving option1970. The selection may be based on, for example, the type of device,the use of the device (i.e., one or more operations performed by thedevice), the location of the device in the network, etc. If a powerisland power saving option is to be used, the method continues byselecting and applying the power saving option to be applied 1972. Theselection may be based, for example, on the type of devices within thepower island, the use of the devices within the power island (i.e., oneor more operations performed by one or more devices within the powerisland), the location of the power island in the network, etc. Afterapplying the power saving option, the method continues by determiningwhether a list of devices has been exhausted 1974. If not, the methodrepeats by selecting another device 1964.

If the list of devices has been exhausted, the method continues bydetermining whether the power options for one or more devices should beupdated 1976. If so, the process repeats from the beginning for theparticular devices. In addition, or in the alternative, the method maybe continually repeated to change the power saving options for one ormore devices.

As may be used herein, the terms “substantially” and “approximately”provides an industry-accepted tolerance for its corresponding termand/or relativity between items. Such an industry-accepted toleranceranges from less than one percent to fifty percent and corresponds to,but is not limited to, component values, integrated circuit processvariations, temperature variations, rise and fall times, and/or thermalnoise. Such relativity between items ranges from a difference of a fewpercent to magnitude differences. As may also be used herein, theterm(s) “operably coupled to”, “coupled to”, It's and/or “coupling”includes direct coupling between items and/or indirect coupling betweenitems via an intervening item (e.g., an item includes, but is notlimited to, a component, an element, a circuit, and/or a module) where,for indirect coupling, the intervening item does not modify theinformation of a signal but may adjust its current level, voltage level,and/or power level. As may further be used herein, inferred coupling(i.e., where one element is coupled to another element by inference)includes direct and indirect coupling between two items in the samemanner as “coupled to”. As may even further be used herein, the term“operable to” or “operably coupled to” indicates that an item includesone or more of power connections, input(s), output(s), etc., to perform,when activated, one or more its corresponding functions and may furtherinclude inferred coupling to one or more other items. As may stillfurther be used herein, the term “associated with”, includes directand/or indirect coupling of separate items and/or one item beingembedded within another item. As may be used herein, the term “comparesfavorably”, indicates that a comparison between two or more items,signals, etc., provides a desired relationship. For example, when thedesired relationship is that signal 1 has a greater magnitude thansignal 2, a favorable comparison may be achieved when the magnitude ofsignal 1 is greater than that of signal 2 or when the magnitude ofsignal 2 is less than that of signal 1.

While the transistors in the above described figure(s) is/are shown asfield effect transistors (FETs), as one of ordinary skill in the artwill appreciate, the transistors may be implemented using any type oftransistor structure including, but not limited to, bipolar, metal oxidesemiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFET), N-well transistors,P-well transistors, enhancement mode, depletion mode, and zero voltagethreshold (VT) transistors.

The present invention has also been described above with the aid ofmethod steps illustrating the performance of specified functions andrelationships thereof. The boundaries and sequence of these functionalbuilding blocks and method steps have been arbitrarily defined hereinfor convenience of description. Alternate boundaries and sequences canbe defined so long as the specified functions and relationships areappropriately performed. Any such alternate boundaries or sequences arethus within the scope and spirit of the claimed invention.

The present invention has been described, at least in part, in terms ofone or more embodiments. An embodiment of the present invention is usedherein to illustrate the present invention, an aspect thereof, a featurethereof, a concept thereof, and/or an example thereof. A physicalembodiment of an apparatus, an article of manufacture, a machine, and/orof a process that embodies the present invention may include one or moreof the aspects, features, concepts, examples, etc. described withreference to one or more of the embodiments discussed herein. Further,from figure to figure, the embodiments may incorporate the same orsimilarly named functions, steps, modules, etc. that may use the same ordifferent reference numbers and, as such, the functions, steps, modules,etc. may be the same or similar functions, steps, modules, etc. ordifferent ones.

The present invention has been described above with the aid offunctional building blocks illustrating the performance of certainsignificant functions. The boundaries of these functional buildingblocks have been arbitrarily defined for convenience of description.Alternate boundaries could be defined as long as the certain significantfunctions are appropriately performed. Similarly, flow diagram blocksmay also have been arbitrarily defined herein to illustrate certainsignificant functionality. To the extent used, the flow diagram blockboundaries and sequence could have been defined otherwise and stillperform the certain significant functionality. Such alternatedefinitions of both functional building blocks and flow diagram blocksand sequences are thus within the scope and spirit of the claimedinvention. One of average skill in the art will also recognize that thefunctional building blocks, and other illustrative blocks, modules andcomponents herein, can be implemented as illustrated or by discretecomponents, application specific integrated circuits, processorsexecuting appropriate software and the like or any combination thereof.

1. A network node module within a vehicle, comprising: a vehicle networkinterface operable to couple to a vehicular communication network; amemory containing a set of use modes, each defining rights andprivileges for operating in the vehicular communication network; and aprocessing module configured in accordance with a use mode of the set ofuse modes and further for: identifying a device coupled to the vehicularcommunication network; and enabling the device to operate within thevehicular communication network in accordance with the use mode; whereinthe processing module is securely reconfigurable to any use mode in theset of use modes.
 2. The network node module of claim 1, wherein thememory further maintains contact information for a remote source and theprocessing module operates in accordance with the use mode to: detect anew device coupled to the vehicular communication network via thevehicle network interface; assign a restricted use network address tothe new device that allows the new device to communicate via thevehicular communication network for setup of the new device;authenticate the new device with the remote source using the contactinformation; and convert the restricted use network address into anetwork address upon authentication of the new device.
 3. The networknode module of claim 2, wherein the processing module further discardsany packets received from the new device unrelated to setup of the newdevice.
 4. The network node module of claim 2, wherein the processingmodule further obtains authentication information from the new deviceand provides the authentication information to the remote source toauthenticate the new device.
 5. The network node module of claim 1,wherein the processing module further receives verification informationfrom the remote source indicating whether the new device isauthenticated.
 6. The network node module of claim 5, wherein, when theverification information indicates that the new device is authenticated,the processing module converts the restricted use network address to thenetwork address and updates the vehicular communication network with thenetwork address of the new device.
 7. The network node module of claim5, wherein, when the verification information indicates that the newdevice is not authenticated, the processing module denies the new deviceaccess to the vehicular communication network.
 8. The network nodemodule of claim 5, wherein, when the verification information indicatesthat the new device is not authenticated, the processing module disablespower to the new device.
 9. The network node module of claim 7, whereinthe processing module disables a switch coupling power to the new devicevia a power line or a power over Ethernet (POE) when the new device isnot authenticated.
 10. The network node module of claim 2, wherein thenew device is within the network node module.
 11. The network nodemodule of claim 2, wherein the processing module communicates with theremote source via a wireless connection.
 12. The network node module ofclaim 1, wherein the memory contains expected consumption informationand the processing module operates in accordance with the use mode to:monitor actual consumption of a device coupled to the vehicularcommunication network via the vehicular network interface, the actualconsumption including at least one of data consumption and powerconsumption; and compare the actual consumption to the expectedconsumption information to determine whether the device is damaged. 13.The network node module of claim 12, wherein, when the actualconsumption deviates from the expected consumption by more than astandard deviation, the processing module flags the device as damagedand reduces access by the device to the vehicular communication network.14. The network node module of claim 13, wherein the processing moduleuses a sliding scale based on type of device to reduce access to thevehicular communication network.
 15. The network node module of claim12, wherein, when the actual consumption deviates from the expectedconsumption by more than a standard deviation, the processing moduleflags the device as damaged and disables access by the device to thevehicular communication network.
 16. The network node module of claim15, wherein the processing module disables power to the device todisable access to the vehicular communication network.
 17. The networknode module of claim 12, wherein, when the actual consumption deviatesfrom the expected consumption by more than a standard deviation, theprocessing module determines whether a valid reason exists for thedeviation.
 18. The network node module of claim 17, wherein, when avalid reason is found for the deviation, the processing module continuesto monitor the actual consumption of the device.
 19. The network nodemodule of claim 17, wherein, when a valid reason is not found for thedeviation, the processing module flags the device as damaged.
 20. Thenetwork node module of claim 17, wherein, when a valid reason is notfound for the deviation, the processing module generates a serviceindication regarding the device.